Event Catering Service Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Event Catering Service Manager in Polokwane to lead the front-of-house service team and oversee all catering operations for events. The role demands strong leadership, meticulous service standards, and a passion for delivering memorable guest experiences in Limpopo.

You will coordinate with culinary staff, ensure safety compliance, and maintain exceptional client satisfaction across diverse events.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in catering or hospitality management.
• Experience leading and supervising a service team.
• Strong understanding of F&B service operations, including wine and beverages.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Exceptional customer service orientation and guest experience focus.
• Ability to stay calm and effective under pressure in fast-paced events.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills with clients, staff, and vendors.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of event catering service from setup to breakdown.
• Lead, train, and mentor service staff including waitrons, bartenders, and captains.
• Develop and implement service standards and SOPs for consistency and quality.
• Coordinate F&B service with culinary team for seamless delivery.
• Manage event timelines and ensure timely service of food and beverages.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations on sites.
• Handle client inquiries on-site and address issues promptly and professionally.
• Manage inventory of service equipment, linens, and supplies.
• Conduct pre-event briefings with the service team to communicate details.
• Analyze post-event feedback and implement improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

F&B service operations

Customer service

Time management

Communication

Flexibility to work weekends

Health and safety knowledge

Driver's license

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering and event management company based in Polokwane, is seeking an experienced and highly organized Event Catering Service Manager. This key role is responsible for overseeing the successful execution of all catering services, ensuring an exceptional client and guest experience. You will lead and manage the front-of-house service team, maintain rigorous quality standards, and ensure the efficient operation of all events. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of event service protocols, and a passion for delivering impeccable hospitality in the Limpopo province. This position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to excellence in every detail.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all aspects of event catering service, from setup to breakdown.
• Lead, train, and mentor a team of service staff, including waitrons, bartenders, and captains, ensuring high performance and adherence to standards.
• Develop and implement service standards and operating procedures to ensure consistency and quality.
• Oversee the coordination of F&B service with the culinary team to ensure seamless delivery.
• Manage event timelines, ensuring timely service of food and beverages.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations on event sites.
• Handle client inquiries and requests on-site, ensuring client satisfaction and addressing any issues promptly and professionally.
• Manage inventory of service equipment, linens, and supplies, ensuring they are well-maintained and sufficient for events.
• Conduct pre-event briefings with the service team to communicate event details, expectations, and responsibilities.
• Analyze post-event feedback to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in catering or hospitality management, with a strong focus on event service delivery.
• Proven experience in leading and supervising a service team, with excellent motivational and training skills.
• Strong understanding of F&B service operations, including wine and beverage service.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Exceptional customer service orientation with a passion for creating memorable guest experiences.
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure in a fast-paced event environment.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, capable of interacting professionally with clients, staff, and vendors.
• Flexibility to work variable hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules in Polokwane.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations in food service is essential.
• A valid driver's license is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• This role provides an excellent opportunity for career growth within a reputable organization and the chance to work on a variety of exciting events in the Limpopo region.
• You will be part of a dedicated team that values professionalism and teamwork.
• We are committed to employee development and provide continuous training to enhance skills and career progression.
• Join a company that prides itself on delivering exceptional service and creating unforgettable experiences for its clients.