Head Caterer - Corporate Events

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle or travel allowance

Health and retirement benefits

Performance-based bonus

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Caterer in Port Elizabeth to lead a premier corporate event catering division. You will strategize operations, drive culinary innovation, and manage teams to deliver exceptional experiences for high-profile clients.

The role demands strong leadership, extensive catering knowledge, and a commitment to quality, safety, and client satisfaction. A dynamic environment offers growth opportunities within an expanding catering business.

Qualifications

• Leadership and strategic oversight for a high-volume corporate catering operation.
• Strong expertise in culinary arts, menu design, and food costing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of corporate event catering from client brief to service delivery.
• Develop creative, high-quality menus for diverse corporate preferences and dietary needs.
• Manage kitchen operations including staffing, inventory, procurement, budget control, and QA.
• Lead and coach chefs and service staff to achieve excellence.
• Ensure strict compliance with food safety and health regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary Arts

Menu Planning

Food Costing

Food Safety

Client Relations

Negotiation

Problem Solving

Driver's License

Flexible Hours

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a seasoned and visionary Head Caterer to lead their corporate event catering division in Port Elizabeth . This leadership position involves strategic planning, menu innovation, operational oversight, and team management to deliver exceptional culinary experiences for corporate clients. You will be responsible for upholding the highest standards of quality, service, and presentation, driving business growth through outstanding client satisfaction and culinary excellence. The ideal candidate is a strong leader with a comprehensive understanding of the catering industry, a passion for food, and the ability to manage complex operations efficiently, ensuring every event is a hallmark of quality and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of corporate event catering, from initial client consultation and menu creation to final service delivery.
• Develop creative, high-quality menus that cater to diverse corporate preferences and dietary requirements.
• Manage kitchen operations, including staffing, inventory, procurement, budget control, and quality assurance.
• Lead, train, and inspire a team of chefs, kitchen staff, and event service personnel to achieve excellence.
• Ensure strict compliance with all food safety, health, and hygiene regulations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with corporate clients, understanding their needs and exceeding expectations.
• Drive innovation in menu offerings and service delivery to stay ahead of industry trends.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in catering management, with a significant focus on corporate events.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage and motivate diverse teams.
• Extensive knowledge of culinary arts, menu planning, food costing, and presentation techniques.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and operational efficiency in a high-volume catering environment.
• Excellent client relationship management, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to work flexible hours according to event demands.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Significant opportunity for professional growth and impact within a growing catering business in Port Elizabeth .
• Company vehicle or travel allowance provided.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• A dynamic work environment focused on delivering premium corporate catering services.