Head Caterer - Corporate Hospitality

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a dynamic Head Caterer to lead corporate catering operations across the region. The role requires overseeing menu planning, service delivery, quality assurance, and team leadership to ensure top-tier experiences for diverse clients.

You will manage budgets, procurement, and cost control, maintain HACCP-compliant standards, and liaise directly with clients to tailor offerings.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years' catering management experience.
• Proven track record in senior catering roles.
• Strong menu planning and event logistics capabilities.
• Financial management including budgeting and cost control.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transport.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all catering operations for corporate clients.
• Plan and curate menus tailored to client needs and dietary requirements.
• Oversee budgeting, procurement and cost control.
• Manage kitchen staff, event teams and service personnel.
• Ensure HACCP-compliant food safety and hygiene standards.
• Liaise with clients to brief, coordinate, and ensure flawless events.
• Monitor feedback and drive service improvements.

Skills

Catering management

Leadership

Budgeting

Menu planning

Food safety

Client relations

Event logistics

Team management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of corporate catering services in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head Caterer to lead their operations. This pivotal role involves overseeing all aspects of catering for a diverse range of corporate clients, ensuring exceptional service delivery, menu planning, budget management, and team leadership. You will be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene, while driving innovation and client satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in catering management, exceptional organizational skills, and a passion for creating memorable culinary experiences for businesses throughout the vibrant city of Durban .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all catering operations, including event planning, execution, and post-event analysis.
• Develop and curate diverse and appealing menus tailored to corporate clients' needs and preferences, considering dietary restrictions.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality of ingredients.
• Oversee kitchen staff, event teams, and service personnel, providing training, motivation, and performance management.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, health, and hygiene standards (HACCP compliant).
• Develop and manage catering budgets, controlling costs and maximizing profitability.
• Liaise directly with clients to understand their requirements, build strong relationships, and ensure seamless event execution.
• Monitor event feedback and implement improvements to service delivery.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and innovations in catering and hospitality.

Requirements

• Extensive experience (minimum 7 years) in catering management, with a proven track record of success in a similar role.
• Strong understanding of food production, menu planning, and event logistics.
• Demonstrated experience in financial management, including budgeting and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in food safety and hygiene standards.
• Exceptional client relationship management and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events simultaneously in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .
• A creative approach to menu development and event presentation.
• Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transport.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive remuneration package, significant opportunities for career advancement, and the chance to lead a dedicated team in delivering top-tier catering services across Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . You will be instrumental in shaping the client's reputation for excellence and contributing to their continued success in the corporate hospitality sector.