Executive Catering Director

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Executive health plan

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Catering Director based in Pretoria to drive strategic growth and oversee complex catering operations. You will lead a large team, shape service offerings, and ensure financial performance.

The role requires a visionary leader with a proven track record in catering/hospitality, strong client relations, and deep knowledge of food safety and regulatory standards. Significant travel within Gauteng is expected.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in senior management in catering, hospitality, or events.
• Proven track record in driving growth with P&L responsibility and budget control.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Admin or Hospitality preferred; willingness to travel within Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic plans to drive revenue growth and market share in catering.
• Oversee all operations of the catering division including food, beverage, logistics, staffing and events.
• Lead and mentor a large team of catering professionals and foster high performance.
• Ensure delivery of exceptional catering services that meet and exceed client expectations.
• Manage budgets, P&L, and financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Build and maintain relationships with key clients, stakeholders, and suppliers.
• Maintain food safety, hygiene, and regulatory compliance.
• Represent the company at industry events and conferences in Pretoria and Gauteng.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial management

Client relationships

Team leadership

Budget control

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished leader in the catering industry based in Pretoria , is seeking a highly accomplished and strategic Executive Catering Director. This senior leadership position will oversee all operational and strategic aspects of the company's extensive catering services. The Director will be responsible for driving business growth, enhancing service quality, managing large teams, and ensuring financial objectives are met and exceeded. This role requires a visionary leader with a profound understanding of the catering market, exceptional operational expertise, and a strong commitment to excellence. You will play a critical role in shaping the future direction of the company, particularly within the thriving Gauteng region. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in managing complex catering operations, including large-scale events, hospitality, and client relationship management.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement strategic business plans to drive revenue growth and market share in the catering sector. Oversee all operational aspects of the catering division, including food and beverage, logistics, staffing, and event execution. Lead, mentor, and manage a large team of catering professionals, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement. Ensure the delivery of exceptional catering services that consistently meet and exceed client expectations. Manage budgets, P&L statements, and financial performance for the catering division, identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality. Develop and maintain strong relationships with key clients, stakeholders, and suppliers. Uphold the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and operational compliance. Innovate and introduce new service offerings and culinary trends to maintain a competitive edge. Represent the company at industry events and conferences, enhancing its brand reputation in Pretoria and beyond. Conduct regular performance reviews and implement training programs for staff development.

Requirements

Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in senior management roles within the catering, hospitality, or events industry. Proven track record of success in driving business growth and managing large-scale catering operations. Demonstrated expertise in financial management, including P&L responsibility and budget control. Exceptional leadership, team-building, and motivational skills. Strong understanding of food and beverage operations, menu engineering, and event logistics. Excellent client relationship management and negotiation skills. Deep knowledge of health, safety, and hygiene regulations relevant to the food industry. Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or a related field is highly preferred. Ability to travel as needed within the Gauteng province and occasionally beyond.

Benefits

This executive role offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive executive benefits package, commensurate with the seniority and responsibilities of the position. Our client provides significant opportunities for strategic leadership and career advancement. You will be empowered to make key decisions and shape the direction of a leading catering enterprise in Pretoria. Benefits include a performance-based bonus structure, executive health and retirement plans, and the opportunity to lead and inspire a dedicated team. Join a company that values innovation, quality, and strategic growth.