Food and Beverage Manager

Dream Hotels & Resorts; Ballito; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading resort in KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a Food and Beverage Lead to ensure exceptional dining experiences. You will manage operations, lead a diverse team, and oversee menu planning. Ideal candidates will have over 3 years' experience in food and beverage leadership within a 4-star establishment. This role includes financial management, customer service, and collaboration on marketing strategies to enhance offerings.

Qualifications

• More than 3 years of food and beverage leadership experience in a 4-star establishment.
• Strong management skills to lead a diverse team.
• Proficient in using restaurant management software and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Lead food and beverage operations ensuring excellent service.
• Manage menu planning and development with culinary teams.
• Oversee financial management to maximize profitability.

Skills

Leadership

Customer Service

Financial Management

Marketing

Vendor Relations

Education

Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management

Tools

MS Office - Word, Excel & Outlook

Restaurant management software

POS - HTI with Plus Point

Job description

Job Overview

Zimbali Lodge, a 4-star resort located just 5 minutes' drive from Ballito, is seeking a Food and Beverage Lead to join our team. As the leader of our food and beverage operations, you will play a crucial role in ensuring our guests have a phenomenal dining experience. This position is ideal for someone with a passion for the hospitality industry, exceptional management skills, and a drive to continuously improve our offerings.

Company Overview

Zimbali Lodge is one of the newest additions to Dream Hotels & Resorts, a mixed‑use accommodation group focused on making a positive impact in the community. At Dream Hotels & Resorts, our team is guided by 8 core values that prioritise sustainability, trust, dynamism, excellence, joy, diversity, integrity, and creativity. We strive to create a joyful work environment that connects people with our surroundings and each other.

Key Responsibilities

• Menu Planning and Development: Collaborate with chefs and culinary team to create menus that align with our establishment's concept, meet budgetary requirements, and comply with food safety regulations.
• Purchasing and Inventory Management: Source and purchase food, beverages, and supplies, negotiate with vendors, manage inventory levels, and ensure cost‑effective purchasing practices while maintaining quality standards.
• Team Management: Recruit, train, schedule, lead, and motivate food and beverage service team members, including waiters, bartenders, kitchen teams, and other personnel, to provide excellent customer service.
• Customer Service: Ensure high standards of customer service are maintained by interacting with guests, addressing feedback and complaints, and resolving any issues that may arise during service.
• Quality Control and Compliance: Monitor food preparation, presentation, and service to ensure quality and consistency, as well as compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Financial Management: Develop and manage budgets, analyse financial reports, track expenses, and implement cost‑control measures to maximise profitability and achieve financial targets.
• Event Planning and Catering: Coordinate and oversee food and beverage services for events, conferences, weddings, and other special occasions, ensuring that client expectations are met and that events run smoothly.
• Marketing and Promotions: Collaborate with the Resort Custodian, marketing and sales team to develop strategies to promote food and beverage offerings, drive sales, attract customers, and enhance the overall dining experience.
• Vendor and Supplier Relations: Build and maintain relationships with food and beverage suppliers, negotiate contracts, monitor performance, and seek opportunities for partnerships that benefit the establishment.
• Trends and Innovation: Stay informed about industry trends, new technologies, and innovations in food and beverage service to continuously improve offerings, stay competitive, and meet customer preferences.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management or related field.
• Proven food and beverage leadership experience of more than 3 years in a 4-star establishment.
• Proficiency in MS Office - Word, Excel & Outlook, Restaurant management software, POS, Preferably HTI with Plus Point, Plus Central and Apex.