Event Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-based bonuses

Career development opportunities

Work on high-profile events

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee large-scale catering events. You will manage end-to-end operations, from logistics to quality control, ensuring hygiene and client satisfaction.

Lead a diverse team, optimize workflows, manage budgets, and coordinate with sales and culinary teams to align with event scope and client needs. Flexible hours and potential for bonuses.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in operations management, preferably in catering, hospitality or events in Durban.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with proven ability to lead large teams.
• Solid understanding of supply chain, inventory control and cost management.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and manage efficient operational procedures for all catering events in Durban.
• Oversee event setup/breakdown logistics, including equipment, staffing and transport.
• Manage inventory levels for food, beverages, equipment and supplies to minimize waste.
• Lead, train and manage a diverse catering team (kitchen, service, delivery).
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and hygiene regulations (HACCP).
• Collaborate with sales and culinary teams to align operations with client requirements and event scope.
• Monitor event execution and troubleshoot issues to maintain client satisfaction.
• Manage supplier relationships and negotiate favorable terms for goods and services.
• Develop and manage operating budgets to improve cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements and implement best practices.

Skills

Operations management

Logistics

Supply chain management

Inventory control

Cost management

Food safety

Leadership

Scheduling tools

Driver's license

Tools

Inventory management software

Scheduling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the **Durban** catering industry, is seeking an experienced and highly organized Operations Manager to oversee their extensive event catering services. This role is critical for ensuring the smooth and efficient execution of all catering operations, from logistical planning and resource allocation to quality control and client satisfaction. The Operations Manager will be responsible for managing a diverse team, optimizing workflows, and maintaining the highest standards of service and hygiene across all events. We are looking for a proactive leader with a strong background in logistics, supply chain management, and team supervision, ideally within a large-scale catering or event management context in **Durban**. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to shape and drive the operational success of a leading catering business.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage efficient operational procedures for all catering events in **Durban**.
• Oversee the logistics of event setup and breakdown, including equipment, staffing, and transportation.
• Manage inventory levels for food, beverages, equipment, and supplies, ensuring optimal stock and minimizing waste.
• Lead, train, and manage a team of catering staff, including kitchen support, service staff, and delivery personnel.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene regulations (e.g., HACCP) throughout the operational process.
• Collaborate with sales and culinary teams to ensure operational capabilities align with client requirements and event scope.
• Monitor event execution, troubleshooting any issues that arise to ensure client satisfaction.
• Manage supplier relationships and negotiate favorable terms for goods and services.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, striving for cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Continuously identify opportunities for operational improvements and implement best practices.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management, preferably within the catering, hospitality, or event industry in **Durban**.
• Demonstrated experience in managing large teams and complex logistical operations.
• Strong understanding of supply chain management, inventory control, and cost management principles.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards relevant to catering.
• Proven leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities under pressure.
• Strong organizational and planning skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in relevant software, including inventory management and scheduling tools.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the **Durban** area.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, based on event schedules.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes comprehensive benefits and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to lead and innovate within a dynamic operational environment.
• Be part of a well-respected company in the **Durban** events and catering sector.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• Work on a diverse range of exciting and high-profile events.
• This role provides a chance to significantly impact the operational efficiency and success of the business.