Executive Catering Manager - Johannesburg

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Catering Manager in Johannesburg to lead the prestigious catering division. The role requires strategic leadership, strong client relationships, and a passion for delivering luxury culinary experiences for a diverse client base.

You will oversee menu design, events, staff management, budgeting, and compliance while guiding a high-performing team in a fast-paced luxury hospitality environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years progressive catering management experience.
• At least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record in large-scale events and catering operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic plans to grow profitability and market share.
• Oversee catering operations: menu planning, events, staff, inventory.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships and exceed expectations.
• Lead and develop a high-performing catering team.
• Manage budgets, control costs, ensure health and safety compliance.
• Collaborate with culinary teams on innovative menus.
• Ensure seamless event execution from start to finish.
• Monitor market trends and identify growth opportunities in Johannesburg.

Skills

Executive leadership

Budgeting & cost control

Client relationship management

Food & beverage trends

Education

Hospitality Management qualification

Business Administration qualification

Tools

Catering management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event services provider in Johannesburg, is seeking an accomplished and dynamic Executive Catering Manager to lead their prestigious catering division. This is a pivotal role for a strategic leader passionate about delivering unparalleled culinary experiences for a diverse clientele. The successful candidate will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client's catering operations, ensuring excellence in service, innovation in menu design, and meticulous attention to detail. This role requires a forward-thinking individual who can manage complex operations, cultivate strong client relationships, and inspire a high-performing team. The position is based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, offering a challenging yet rewarding career opportunity within a rapidly growing sector. We are looking for a candidate who thrives in a fast-paced environment and possesses a deep understanding of the luxury hospitality market.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance the catering division's profitability and market share.
• Oversee all aspects of catering operations, including menu planning, event execution, staff management, and inventory control.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and exceeding their expectations for events of all sizes.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of catering professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Manage budgets, control costs effectively, and ensure compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations.
• Collaborate with culinary teams to create innovative and seasonally appropriate menus that reflect current culinary trends.
• Ensure seamless execution of all events, from initial client consultation to final service delivery, maintaining the highest standards of quality and presentation.
• Monitor industry trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for growth and innovation within the Johannesburg market.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in catering management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role, preferably within the Gauteng region.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale catering operations and complex events.
• Exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Strong financial acumen, with demonstrated ability to manage budgets and control costs effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of food and beverage trends, culinary techniques, and event planning best practices.
• Proficiency in using catering management software and standard office applications.
• A relevant qualification in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is highly desirable.
• Must be a resident or willing to relocate to Johannesburg.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including a performance-based bonus structure.

Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions, along with opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading hospitality group.

You will be part of a dynamic and supportive team, contributing to memorable events across Johannesburg and beyond.

This role provides the chance to make a significant impact and shape the client's catering legacy.