Event Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Event Catering Operations Manager to oversee end-to-end catering events, from client contact and planning to on-site delivery and post-event analysis.

The role combines significant remote planning with essential on-site oversight, requiring a proven ability to manage resources, maintain service standards, and drive client satisfaction across multiple high-profile events.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of catering management or related hospitality operations experience.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and P&L responsibility.
• Experience with event management software and standard business applications.
• Willingness to travel to event sites and manage operations remotely.

Responsibilities

• Oversee lifecycle of catering events from proposal to billing, ensuring client satisfaction.
• Coordinate staffing, equipment rental, transportation, menu execution, and venue setup.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, vendors, and suppliers.
• Enforce health, safety, and sanitation standards across operations.
• Lead, train, and motivate event staff to deliver exceptional service.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to identify improvements.

Skills

Organizational skills

Budget management

Communication

Negotiation

Leadership

Problem-solving

Event coordination

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished catering and event services firm based near Klerksdorp , is seeking an experienced and motivated Event Catering Operations Manager . This position is pivotal in ensuring the seamless execution of all catered events, managing everything from initial client contact and logistical planning to on-site service delivery and post-event analysis. While the operational base is in the region, this role offers a significant remote component, allowing for strategic planning and management from a distance, supported by strong on-site teams. You will be responsible for upholding exceptional service standards, managing resources effectively, and driving client satisfaction through meticulous attention to detail and proactive problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of catering events, from proposal development and client liaison to final execution and billing, ensuring client satisfaction at every stage.
• Manage and coordinate all operational logistics, including staffing, equipment rental, transportation, menu execution, and venue setup, ensuring seamless delivery.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and suppliers to ensure high-quality service and cost-effective operations.
• Implement and enforce stringent health, safety, and sanitation standards across all catering operations, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Lead, train, and motivate event staff, fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and exceptional customer service.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to identify successes, areas for improvement, and client feedback, using this data to enhance future operations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in catering management, event planning, or a related hospitality operations role.
• Proven ability to manage complex events and operations, demonstrating strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills for effective client and team management.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management, cost control, and P&L responsibility.
• Proficiency with event management software and standard business applications.
• Ability to travel to event sites as needed and manage operations remotely effectively.

Benefits

• Competitive executive salary with performance incentives.
• Significant remote work flexibility combined with essential on-site operational oversight.
• Opportunity to manage a wide array of high-profile events.
• Professional development opportunities and potential for advancement.
• A dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation and client satisfaction.