Event Catering Manager

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 520,000 - 780,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Career progression opportunities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Event Catering Manager to oversee all aspects of catered events in Paarl, Western Cape. You will liaise with clients, develop detailed event plans, coordinate on-site staff, and ensure high-quality service and client satisfaction.

The role requires strong organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple events, budgets, and timelines while maintaining excellent communication with clients and culinary teams.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in event management, preferably within catering or hospitality.
• Strong understanding of event logistics, food and beverage service, and client relations.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time-management skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Leadership ability to manage and motivate event teams.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary contact for clients and understand their event needs and vision.
• Develop detailed event plans including menus, staffing, timelines, and logistics.
• Coordinate and manage on-site catering staff to ensure professional service.
• Oversee setup, execution and breakdown with attention to detail.
• Manage inventory, equipment and supplies for each event.

Skills

Event management

Client liaison

Leadership

Planning

Communication

Tools

Event planning software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading and dynamic catering company based in Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced and highly organized Event Catering Manager. This role is crucial for ensuring the seamless execution of all catered events, from initial client consultation to final delivery and client satisfaction. The Event Catering Manager will be responsible for liaising with clients, coordinating event logistics, managing on-site teams, and overseeing all aspects of service delivery to uphold our client's reputation for excellence. We are looking for a proactive individual with exceptional communication, planning, and leadership skills, coupled with a strong understanding of the catering and hospitality industry. This position offers an exciting opportunity to manage diverse events in the beautiful Paarl region and contribute significantly to the company's success.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, understanding their event needs and vision.
• Develop detailed event plans, including menus, staffing, timelines, and logistics.
• Coordinate and manage all on-site catering staff, ensuring professional service delivery.
• Oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown, ensuring all details are managed efficiently.
• Manage inventory, equipment, and supplies for each event, ensuring adequate provision.
• Conduct pre-event briefings with the team to ensure clear communication and expectations.
• Address and resolve any client or event-related issues promptly and professionally.
• Monitor event budgets and ensure cost-effectiveness without compromising quality.
• Collaborate closely with the culinary team to ensure menu accuracy and quality.
• Gather client feedback post-event to identify areas for improvement and ensure satisfaction.

Requirements

• Proven experience in event management, preferably within the catering or hospitality sector.
• Strong understanding of event logistics, food and beverage service, and client relations.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time-management skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Leadership ability to effectively manage and motivate event teams.
• Proficiency in relevant software for event planning and management.
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure, problem-solving on the go.
• Flexibility to work varied hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as event schedules demand.
• A passion for creating memorable event experiences for clients.
• Located in or able to commute to Paarl, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to manage a diverse portfolio of high-profile events.
• Be part of a creative and energetic team in a beautiful region.
• Professional development and growth opportunities within the company.
• A dynamic work environment where no two days are the same.
• Contribute to the success and reputation of a respected catering business.
• Potential for career progression to senior management roles.
• Enjoy the unique lifestyle and charm of the Paarl winelands.