Executive Catering Manager - Tembisa

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement savings plan

Staff development

Leave allowances

Staff discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Catering Manager to lead premier catering operations in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will steer strategic planning, client satisfaction, and multi-site event execution to deliver exceptional culinary experiences.

You will manage budgets, lead chefs and staff, negotiate with vendors, and uphold health and safety standards, ensuring top-quality service for a discerning clientele.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive experience in catering management or a related hospitality leadership role.
• Proven track record of managing complex events and large-scale catering operations.
• Strong understanding of culinary techniques, food safety standards (HACCP), and cost management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic catering plans to align with business objectives and market trends.
• Manage day-to-day catering operations, including menu planning, procurement, food preparation, event execution, and post-event analysis.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of chefs, servers, and support staff to ensure exceptional service delivery.
• Oversee budget management, cost control, and inventory management to optimize profitability and minimize waste.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding needs and ensuring expectations are met.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations across all catering activities.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop new catering packages and promotional strategies.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts for supplies and services.
• Handle client feedback and resolve issues promptly and professionally.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.

Skills

Leadership

Catering management

Food safety HACCP

Cost management

Menu engineering

Event planning software

Education

Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management or Culinary Arts

Tools

Event planning software

Menu engineering software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Executive Catering Manager to oversee all aspects of their prestigious catering operations in Tembisa, Gauteng . This is a pivotal role requiring exceptional leadership, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for delivering unparalleled culinary experiences. The successful candidate will be responsible for strategic planning, operational efficiency, and client satisfaction, ensuring that every event, from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions, is executed flawlessly. This position demands a proactive approach to managing a diverse team and maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and service. The role offers a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of catering services for a discerning clientele in a dynamic market.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic catering plans to align with business objectives and market trends.
• Manage all day-to-day catering operations, including menu planning, procurement, food preparation, event execution, and post-event analysis.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of chefs, servers, and support staff to ensure exceptional service delivery.
• Oversee budget management, cost control, and inventory management to optimize profitability and minimize waste.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and ensuring their expectations are consistently met or exceeded.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations across all catering activities.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to develop new catering packages and promotional strategies.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts for supplies and services.
• Handle client feedback and resolve any issues promptly and professionally.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in catering management or a related hospitality leadership role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex events and large-scale catering operations.
• Strong understanding of culinary techniques, food safety standards (HACCP), and cost management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in menu engineering and event planning software.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• A diploma or degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or a related field is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and control costs.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to travel within the Tembisa region as needed.
• Passion for food and delivering exceptional customer service.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement savings plan.
• Employees benefit from opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing organization.
• You will also enjoy generous leave allowances and access to staff discounts on catering services.
• This role provides a challenging yet rewarding environment, working with a dedicated team committed to excellence in the Tembisa area.