Head Catering Operations Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Career development

Autonomy to lead

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Catering Operations Manager in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will oversee all catering operations, staff, and logistics across diverse events, from intimate gatherings to large corporate functions.

The role requires a strategic leader with 8+ years in catering/hospitality operations, including 4+ years in a senior role, strong budgeting acumen, HACCP knowledge, and Vendor management skills. Flexibility for extended hours will apply.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive experience in catering or hospitality operations management.
• At least 4 years in a senior leadership role.
• Experience managing large-scale events across multiple sites.
• Strong budgeting, P&L, and cost control experience.
• Deep knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all catering operations, including events, staff, inventory and logistics.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, profitability and service quality.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting and cost controls for all catering activities.
• Lead, train and motivate large teams including managers, chefs and service staff.
• Ensure high standards of food safety and vendor quality across operations.
• Negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships.
• Collaborate with sales and culinary teams to ensure seamless event execution.
• Drive continuous improvement and implement technology solutions for efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Budgeting

Vendor management

Food safety

Education

Hospitality Management degree

Business Administration degree

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of premium catering services, is seeking an experienced and strategic Head Catering Operations Manager to oversee all operational aspects in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This senior leadership role demands a comprehensive understanding of large-scale event logistics, team management, financial oversight, and quality control within the demanding hospitality sector. You will be responsible for ensuring the efficient and profitable delivery of catering services across a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to large corporate functions and weddings. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills, a strong operational mindset, and a proven ability to drive excellence and innovation in a competitive market. This is a critical position within a highly respected organization, offering the opportunity to shape the future of catering operations in Stellenbosch region.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all catering operations, including event execution, staff management, inventory, and logistics.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize efficiency, profitability, and service quality.
• Oversee budgeting, financial forecasting, and cost control measures for all catering activities.
• Lead, train, and motivate a large team of catering staff, including event managers, supervisors, chefs, and service personnel.
• Ensure adherence to the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and quality control across all operations.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure the timely procurement of goods and services.
• Collaborate with sales and culinary teams to ensure seamless event planning and execution that meets client expectations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the operations department.
• Implement and manage technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency and client service.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in catering or hospitality operations management, with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex, large-scale events and multiple operational sites.
• Strong financial acumen, with proven experience in budgeting, P&L management, and cost control.
• Exceptional leadership, team-building, and motivational skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP, and quality assurance practices.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Proficiency in event management software and operational planning tools.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a strategic approach to operational challenges.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is highly desirable.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly attractive salary package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement benefits.
• This role presents significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development within a leading hospitality group.
• You will have the autonomy to lead and innovate within a dynamic and supportive environment in Stellenbosch.
• Join a company that values its employees and is committed to delivering unparalleled catering experiences.
• This is a key leadership opportunity for an accomplished operations professional.