Executive Catering Manager (Remote)

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Remote-first environment

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Professional development and training

Retirement savings plan

Access to remote-work tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Catering Manager to lead our remote catering operations. This remote-first role focuses on scalable, high-volume catering with global reach and strong client partnerships.

You will drive strategic development, oversee budgets, and ensure exceptional service across digital touchpoints and locations without direct on-site supervision. Ideal candidates bring 8+ years in catering management, 3+ in leadership, and a proven ability to manage remote teams, with a

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of progressive catering management experience with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven ability to manage remote teams and operations effectively.
• Strong understanding of culinary trends, food safety, and event planning logistics.
• Excellent financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management.
• Autonomous, strategic thinker with exceptional communication and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive catering strategies aligned with company goals and market trends.
• Oversee all catering operations remotely, including menu planning, events, staffing and quality control.
• Manage budgets, cost control, revenue generation and profitability for all catering activities.
• Cultivate relationships with clients, vendors and internal stakeholders via effective communication.
• Lead, mentor and manage remote catering teams to high performance and development.
• Monitor industry best practices and implement innovative solutions for service delivery and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and sanitation regulations across operations.
• Analyze sales data and feedback to identify improvements and growth opportunities.
• Plan and execute events from intimate to large-scale corporate functions with flawless delivery.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales to develop promotional strategies and expand the client base.

Skills

Remote leadership

Budgeting

P&L management

Team management

Catering operations

Vendor relations

Food safety

Event planning

Strategic planning

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Hospitality Management

Business Administration

Tools

Catering software

Video conferencing tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly expanding hospitality group, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Executive Catering Manager to lead their remote catering operations. This is a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking company that champions a remote-first work environment. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our catering services, ensuring exceptional quality and client satisfaction across all digital touchpoints and managed locations. The ideal candidate possesses a proven track record in high-volume catering management, a strategic mindset, and an innate ability to drive operational excellence from a distance. This role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a passion for delivering outstanding culinary experiences without direct on-site supervision. You will be the central point of contact for all catering-related inquiries and strategic development within the organization, focusing on scalable solutions and efficient resource allocation. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining our brand's reputation for excellence in event catering, even in a fully remote setting. We are looking for a leader who can inspire and manage teams effectively, foster strong client relationships, and implement innovative strategies that align with our business objectives and the evolving demands of the catering industry. This position requires a self-starter who thrives in an autonomous work environment and is committed to achieving measurable results.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive catering strategies aligned with company goals and market trends.
• Oversee all aspects of catering operations, including menu planning, event execution, staffing, and quality control, remotely.
• Manage budget, including cost control, revenue generation, and profitability for all catering activities.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders through effective communication channels.
• Lead, mentor, and manage remote catering teams, ensuring high performance and professional development.
• Monitor industry best practices and implement innovative solutions to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations across all operational areas.
• Analyze sales data and customer feedback to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for growth.
• Plan and execute catering for a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions, ensuring flawless delivery.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to develop promotional strategies and expand the client base.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in catering management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven ability to manage remote teams and operations effectively.
• Strong understanding of culinary trends, food safety, and event planning logistics.
• Excellent financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in catering management software and virtual collaboration tools.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and make sound decisions in a remote environment.
• Must possess strong leadership qualities and a passion for service excellence.
• Experience in a remote-first company culture is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to shape and lead a fully remote catering division.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holiday leave.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Contribution to retirement savings plan.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and tools for remote work.
• A supportive and collaborative virtual work environment.
• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.
• The flexibility and autonomy inherent in a remote-first role.