Event Catering Supervisor

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 83,000 - 124,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Growth opportunities

Exposure to events

Team environment

Training programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Event Catering Supervisor to join our client’s team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead the on-site service team, coordinate with kitchen staff and ensure impeccable guest experiences.

Responsibilities include event setup management, serving oversight, client liaison, and strict adherence to health and safety standards. This role offers growth into event management within a vibrant hospitality environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years experience in catering, hospitality or event service.
• Prior supervisory or team leadership experience desirable.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Physically fit to stand, lift moderately heavy items and assist with setup.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays in Pietermaritzburg.
• Driver's license and own transport advantageous.
• Basic knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate on-site catering staff during events, ensuring efficient service delivery.
• Manage event setups, including table arrangements, décor, and buffet/station setup.
• Oversee serving of food and beverages with timely, professional presentation.
• Act as primary client and venue contact during events, addressing inquiries.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Conduct pre-event briefings with catering team outlining roles and event details.
• Manage inventory of service equipment and supplies during events.
• Assist in breakdown and cleanup post-event, leaving venue pristine.
• Provide feedback to management on team performance and client satisfaction.
• Train new catering staff on service protocols and menu knowledge.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Customer service

Problem solving

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent catering service provider, is seeking an organized and motivated Event Catering Supervisor to join their team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is crucial for ensuring the smooth and efficient execution of all catered events, from intimate corporate lunches to large-scale wedding receptions. The Event Catering Supervisor will be responsible for leading the on-site service team, coordinating with kitchen staff, managing client expectations, and ensuring the highest standards of food presentation and guest service. The ideal candidate is a proactive individual with excellent communication skills, a strong work ethic, and a passion for delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in event management and hospitality within the vibrant Pietermaritzburg area.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate on-site catering staff during events, ensuring efficient service delivery and adherence to company standards.
• Manage event setups, including table arrangements, décor placement, and buffet/station setup, according to client specifications and event layouts.
• Oversee the serving of food and beverages, ensuring timely and professional presentation.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients and venue staff during events, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations throughout the event.
• Conduct pre-event briefings with the catering team to outline roles, responsibilities, and event details.
• Manage inventory of service equipment and supplies during events, ensuring sufficient stock and proper handling.
• Assist in the breakdown and cleanup process post-event, ensuring the venue is left in pristine condition.
• Provide feedback to management regarding team performance, client satisfaction, and operational challenges encountered during events.
• Train new catering staff on service protocols, menu knowledge, and client interaction.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in catering, hospitality, or event service roles.
• Previous supervisory or team leadership experience is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of catering operations, food and beverage service standards, and event protocols.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be physically fit and able to stand for extended periods, lift moderately heavy items, and perform other physical tasks associated with event setup and service.
• Adept at problem-solving and making quick decisions on-site.
• Flexibility to work varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules in Pietermaritzburg.
• Possession of a valid driver's license and own reliable transportation is advantageous.
• Basic knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage or salary, depending on experience.
• Opportunities for growth into event management roles.
• Exposure to a wide variety of exciting events.
• Team-oriented work environment.
• Training on best practices in event catering.