Event Catering Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Training opportunities

Collaborative team environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking an Event Catering Manager to oversee all catering for events, from client consultation and menu planning to on-the-day execution. You will lead a team, maintain client relationships, and ensure service excellence across the Free State region.

The ideal candidate has a passion for food and exceptional service, with strong logistics and management skills. Flexible hours and weekend/holiday availability may be required to meet event schedules.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in event management, catering, or hospitality with a client-relations focus.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and execution of all catered events to ensure client satisfaction.
• Be the main client contact from inquiry to post-event follow-up.
• Develop customized menus and proposals with clients and culinary team.
• Manage event logistics including staffing, equipment, venue coordination and timelines.
• Monitor budgets to ensure profitability and cost-effectiveness for each event.
• Train and supervise event staff to deliver professional service.
• Conduct site visits and tastings as required.
• Maintain relationships with vendors, suppliers and venues.
• Ensure health, safety and sanitation standards are met during events.
• Troubleshoot issues to ensure smooth operation.

Skills

Event management

Client relations

Budgeting

Staff supervision

Negotiation

Communication

Organization

Event planning software

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering and events company operating in Bloemfontein, Free State , is seeking a highly organized and client-focused Event Catering Manager. This role involves overseeing all aspects of catering for events, from initial client consultation and menu planning to seamless execution on the day. The ideal candidate will have a passion for food and exceptional service, combined with strong logistical and management skills. You will be the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring their vision is brought to life while maintaining the company's reputation for excellence. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead and inspire a team in delivering unforgettable catering experiences across Bloemfontein and surrounding areas.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the planning and execution of all catered events, ensuring a high level of client satisfaction.
• Serve as the main point of contact for clients, from initial inquiry through post-event follow-up.
• Develop customized menus and proposals in collaboration with clients and the culinary team.
• Oversee event logistics, including staffing, equipment, venue coordination, and timelines.
• Manage catering budgets, ensuring profitability and cost-effectiveness for each event.
• Supervise and train event staff, ensuring they provide professional and courteous service.
• Conduct site visits and tastings as required.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and venues.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation standards during event execution.
• Troubleshoot any issues that may arise during events to ensure smooth operation.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event management, catering, or hospitality, with a focus on client relations.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and executing diverse events.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.
• Knowledge of food and beverage service standards and best practices.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules in Bloemfontein .
• Proficiency in event management software is an asset.
• A passion for creating exceptional guest experiences.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunity to work with a leading catering provider in the Free State region.
• Exposure to a wide variety of exciting events and clients.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative team environment.