Head Caterer and Operations Manager

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Supportive ownership

Diverse, exciting events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Head Caterer and Operations Manager for Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This role combines culinary leadership with full operational oversight to deliver exceptional catering experiences for a diverse client base.

You will lead food preparation, menu planning, client relations, and financial performance while upholding high standards of quality and service. The position requires strategic thinking, hands-on execution, and a passion for creating memorable events in a

Qualifications

• ≥6 years in catering management or hospitality operations, with ≥3 in senior leadership.
• Proven menu planning, food costing and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team development abilities.
• Excellent food safety knowledge, HACCP and related regs.
• Exceptional customer service and client relationship skills.
• Financial management, budgeting, and P&L analytics.
• Able to manage multiple events and extended hours.

Responsibilities

• Oversee catering operations from menu development to client service.
• Lead and develop chefs, kitchen staff, and service personnel.
• Develop innovative menus using local, seasonal ingredients.
• Manage procurement, inventory control, and supplier relations.
• Develop and manage catering budget and profitability.
• Build relationships with clients to ensure satisfaction.
• Ensure adherence to food safety and hygiene standards.
• Plan and coordinate event logistics including staffing and equipment.
• Seek opportunities to improve service quality and efficiency.
• Represent the company at industry events in Mossel Bay.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Budgeting

Food safety HACCP

Client relations

Staff management

Event coordination

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering service operating in the picturesque region of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head Caterer and Operations Manager. This pivotal role combines culinary leadership with comprehensive operational oversight, ensuring the delivery of exceptional catering experiences for a diverse clientele. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all aspects of the catering business, from menu planning and food preparation to client relations, staff management, and financial performance. You will be instrumental in driving growth, maintaining high standards of quality and service, and upholding the company's reputation for excellence within the Western Cape . This position requires a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a passion for creating memorable events.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all catering operations, including menu development, food production, event execution, and client service.
• Lead, train, and manage a team of chefs, kitchen staff, and service personnel, fostering a culture of professionalism and teamwork.
• Develop and implement innovative menus that cater to a variety of tastes, dietary needs, and event types, emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients.
• Manage procurement, inventory control, and supplier relationships to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality of supplies.
• Develop and manage the catering budget, overseeing financial performance, profitability, and cost control measures.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and ensuring their satisfaction with every event.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, health, and hygiene standards across all operations.
• Plan and coordinate logistics for events, including staffing, equipment, transportation, and setup.
• Continuously seek opportunities to enhance service quality, operational efficiency, and business growth.
• Represent the company at industry events and build a strong network within the Mossel Bay hospitality sector.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in catering management, culinary arts, or hospitality operations, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience in menu planning, food costing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent understanding of food safety regulations and best practices (e.g., HACCP).
• Exceptional customer service and client relationship management skills.
• Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and P&L analysis.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple events simultaneously.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules in Mossel Bay.
• A passion for food and delivering outstanding event experiences.
• Knowledge of the local Western Cape culinary scene and supplier network is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunity to lead and shape a well-regarded catering business in a beautiful location.
• Manage a diverse range of exciting events.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.
• Work in a stimulating and rewarding environment in Mossel Bay.
• Collaborative team culture and support from ownership.
• Potential for expanded responsibilities and impact within the organization.