Head Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career progression

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Catering Operations Manager in Pretoria to lead all catering operations, provide strategic oversight, and drive service excellence and profitability. You will manage a large team across event execution, kitchen management, and logistics while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.

The role requires 7–10 years in catering/operations, strong leadership, and solid financial acumen to control costs and optimize resources in a high-volume setting.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years in catering/operations leadership within hospitality
• Proven leadership of large teams and performance improvement
• Strong financial acumen including budgeting and cost control
• Deep knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices
• Excellent communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills
• Experience with event planning and high‑volume environments

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance service quality, efficiency, and profitability across all catering services.
• Oversee daily operations, including event execution, kitchen management, staffing, inventory, and logistics.
• Manage, train, and motivate a diverse team of catering staff, chefs, and event managers, fostering a culture of excellence.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations and company policies.
• Control operational costs, manage budgets, and optimize resource allocation.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to ensure seamless event planning and client satisfaction.
• Monitor industry trends and identify opportunities for innovation and service improvement.
• Oversee procurement and maintenance of equipment and supplies.
• Act as a key liaison with clients for major events, ensuring expectations are met or exceeded.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

P&L responsibility

Food safety

Communication

Problem solving

Event planning

Multitasking

Education

Hospitality management degree

Business administration degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering and event services company operating in Pretoria, Gauteng , is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head Catering Operations Manager. This critical leadership position will oversee all operational aspects of the catering division, ensuring the highest standards of service delivery, efficiency, and profitability. The ideal candidate will possess a strong track record in managing large-scale catering operations, a deep understanding of the hospitality industry, and exceptional leadership capabilities. You will be responsible for driving operational excellence, managing a significant team, and contributing to the overall strategic growth of the company in the competitive Pretoria market.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance service quality, efficiency, and profitability across all catering services.
• Oversee daily operations, including event execution, kitchen management, staffing, inventory, and logistics.
• Manage, train, and motivate a diverse team of catering staff, chefs, and event managers, fostering a culture of excellence.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene regulations and company policies.
• Control operational costs, manage budgets effectively, and optimize resource allocation.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to ensure seamless event planning and client satisfaction.
• Monitor industry trends and identify opportunities for innovation and service improvement.
• Oversee the procurement and maintenance of equipment and supplies.
• Act as a key liaison with clients for major events, ensuring their expectations are met or exceeded.

Requirements

• Extensive experience (minimum 7-10 years) in catering management or operations management within the hospitality industry.
• Proven leadership skills with a track record of managing large teams and driving performance.
• Strong financial acumen, including budget management, cost control, and P&L responsibility.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety standards, hygiene regulations, and operational best practices.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with event planning and execution, preferably in a high-volume environment.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in Pretoria, Gauteng .
• A relevant degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is advantageous.

Benefits

This senior role offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a respected organization. You will have the autonomy to shape operational strategies and lead a talented team, contributing directly to the success and expansion of our client's catering services throughout Pretoria and surrounding regions. This position provides a challenging yet rewarding career path in the dynamic world of event catering.