Event Catering Manager

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Prestigious events

Career advancement

Dynamic environment

Bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Event Catering Manager in East London, Eastern Cape. The role oversees planning, execution, and delivery of catered events, coordinating kitchen operations and staff, and liaising with clients to ensure exceptional outcomes.

The position requires a strong hospitality and event-management background, with flexibility for evenings, weekends, and holidays as events dictate. East London location with hybrid potential is offered.

Qualifications

• A relevant degree in Hospitality or Event Management is preferred.
• Minimum 5-7 years in event or catering management with a diverse portfolio.
• Strong leadership, organization, and client-facing skills.
• Experience with event planning tools and food safety standards.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute all catered events from concept to delivery.
• Lead catering staff and event coordinators to ensure service excellence.
• Maintain client relationships and ensure vision is realized.
• Collaborate with culinary team to create bespoke menus and standards.
• Oversee venue setup, staffing, equipment, and scheduling.
• Manage event budgets for profitability and cost control.
• Ensure health, safety, and hygiene regulations are met.
• Conduct post-event feedback and drive continuous improvement.
• Troubleshoot operational issues during events.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Customer service

Negotiation

Communication

Event planning software

Office applications

Food safety knowledge

Education

Degree in Hospitality Management or Event Management

Tools

Event planning software

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event and catering company situated in East London, Eastern Cape, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Event Catering Manager. This role is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and successful delivery of all catered events, ensuring exceptional client satisfaction and operational efficiency. You will manage a dedicated team of catering staff, coordinate with kitchen operations, liaise with clients, and manage event logistics from conception to completion. This is a demanding yet rewarding position for a leader with a strong background in hospitality and event management. The role requires your presence in East London, Eastern Cape, with potential for hybrid flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and execute all aspects of catered events, ensuring seamless service delivery.


• Manage and lead catering teams, including service staff and event coordinators.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and ensuring their vision is realized.


• Collaborate closely with the culinary team to develop bespoke menus and ensure food quality standards are met.


• Oversee event logistics, including venue setup, staffing, equipment, and scheduling.


• Manage budgets for events, ensuring profitability and cost-effectiveness.


• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations.


• Conduct post-event evaluations and solicit client feedback for continuous improvement.


• Troubleshoot and resolve any operational issues that may arise during events.


• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in event catering.

Requirements

• A relevant degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Event Management, or a related field is preferred.


• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in event management or catering management, with a proven track record of handling diverse events.


• Strong leadership and team management skills.


• Excellent organizational and project management abilities.


• Exceptional customer service and client relationship management skills.


• Proficiency in event planning software and standard office applications.


• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.


• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.


• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as dictated by event schedules.


• Strong negotiation and communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.


• Opportunity to manage a wide array of prestigious events.


• Work for a reputable and established catering company.


• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.


• A dynamic and supportive work environment.


• Potential for bonuses based on event success.