Event Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid annual leave

Bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, is seeking an experienced Event Catering Operations Manager to oversee all catering operations from planning to delivery, ensuring high standards of quality, service, and client satisfaction.

The role requires strong logistics, team leadership, and a deep understanding of catering and events. You will manage resources, coordinate staff, and ensure smooth execution across multiple events, while adhering to health and safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in catering operations management or a similar role.
• Proven team leadership and supervisory skills.
• Strong event logistics, planning, and food service operations knowledge.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and food hygiene standards.
• Proficient in catering management software and standard office apps.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in dynamic events.
• Hospitality diploma/degree advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily catering operations including food prep, delivery, and on-site service.
• Develop efficient procedures and workflows to improve service.
• Lead and train catering staff, including kitchen and service teams.
• Oversee inventory and control costs of food, beverages, and supplies.
• Coordinate with sales and culinary teams to interpret event requirements.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and hygiene standards.
• Plan event logistics, staffing, and resources for multiple events.
• Serve as client contact during events and resolve issues.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and gather feedback.
• Contribute to budgeting and cost control for catering department.

Skills

Catering operations management

Team leadership

Logistics

Health & safety compliance

Communication

Education

Hospitality Management qualification (advantageous)

Tools

Catering management software

Office applications

Job description

Our client, a dynamic and reputable catering service provider in Vereeniging, Gauteng , is seeking a highly efficient and experienced Event Catering Operations Manager. This critical role oversees the seamless execution of all catering operations, ensuring that every event delivered meets our client's stringent standards for quality, service, and client satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess strong logistical skills, exceptional team leadership abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of the catering and events industry. You will be instrumental in managing resources, coordinating staff, and ensuring the smooth running of events from conception to completion. This is a key leadership position within a growing company, offering the chance to make a tangible impact in the Vereeniging area.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise all daily catering operations, including food preparation, delivery, and on-site service.
• Develop and implement efficient operational procedures and workflows to enhance service delivery and client satisfaction.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of catering staff, including kitchen personnel, servers, and delivery drivers.
• Oversee inventory management, ensuring adequate stock levels of food, beverages, and supplies while controlling costs.
• Collaborate closely with the sales and culinary teams to ensure accurate interpretation and execution of event requirements.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations across all operational areas.
• Manage event logistics, including scheduling, staffing, and resource allocation for multiple events simultaneously.
• Serve as a point of contact for clients during events, addressing any immediate needs or concerns professionally.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to identify areas for improvement and gather client feedback.
• Contribute to budget management and operational cost control initiatives for the catering department.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in catering operations management or a similar role within the hospitality industry.
• Proven experience in managing and leading teams, with strong supervisory skills.
• Excellent understanding of event planning, logistics, and food service operations.
• Strong knowledge of health, safety, and food hygiene standards.
• Exceptional organizational, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in using catering management software and standard office applications.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients and staff.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing demands in a dynamic event environment.
• A proactive approach to identifying and resolving operational challenges.
• Relevant qualification in Hospitality Management or a related field is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• This role provides an excellent opportunity for career advancement within a reputable catering organization.
• You will be part of a dedicated team focused on delivering exceptional event experiences in Vereeniging .
• Professional development and training opportunities will be available.
• Enjoy a challenging yet rewarding role where your operational expertise is highly valued.
• Paid annual leave is provided, along with potential for performance-based bonuses.