Event Catering Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Diverse events portfolio

Creative team

Professional development

Dynamic work environment

Company reputation

Career progression

Paarl winelands lifestyle

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Event Catering Manager to lead flawless catering events in the Paarl region. You will liaise with clients, plan menus, coordinate staff, and ensure exceptional service from start to finish.

This role demands strong leadership, sharp organization, and negotiation skills to manage diverse events while upholding the company's reputation for excellence.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Event management

Logistics planning

F&B service

Client relations

Leadership

Event software

Time management

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.