Head Catering Operations Specialist

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid time off

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a Head Catering Operations Specialist to join our team in Tembisa, Gauteng. This role is pivotal for streamlining catering services, ensuring efficient delivery, and maintaining exceptional quality in a fast-paced environment.

You will lead operations, manage staff, enforce health and safety standards, and work with the sales and client relations teams to deliver flawless events.

Qualifications

• 4+ years in catering operations management or similar field.
• Proven ability to optimize operations and control costs in hospitality.
• Strong knowledge of food, beverage operations, logistics and supply chain.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Experience with health and safety regulations and software tools.
• Hybrid work model with on-site presence in Tembisa, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily catering operations ensuring timely service.
• Develop policies to improve efficiency and quality.
• Schedule and train staff; manage performance.
• Monitor inventory and implement stock controls.
• Enforce health, safety and hygiene standards.
• Coordinate with culinary team for menu execution.
• Troubleshoot issues and implement corrective actions.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate terms.
• Support cost-reduction initiatives without compromising quality.
• Conduct site inspections and audits for safety and integrity.
• Collaborate with sales and client relations for seamless events.

Skills

Catering operations

Cost optimization

Team leadership

Health & safety

Vendor management

Tools

Catering software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a fast-growing corporate catering company, is looking for a dedicated and experienced Head Catering Operations Specialist to join their team in Tembisa, Gauteng . This role is crucial for streamlining and optimizing our client's catering services, ensuring efficient delivery and exceptional quality. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of catering logistics, team management, and quality control, with a focus on operational excellence. You will be instrumental in enhancing service delivery, managing resources effectively, and implementing best practices across all operational facets. This position requires a hands-on approach and a commitment to achieving the highest standards of customer satisfaction in a demanding, fast-paced environment. The role involves a hybrid work model, offering flexibility while ensuring essential on-site oversight.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all daily catering operations, ensuring timely and efficient service delivery.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Manage staff scheduling, training, and performance, ensuring a motivated and skilled team.
• Monitor inventory levels for food, beverages, and supplies, implementing effective stock control measures.
• Ensure adherence to strict health, safety, and hygiene standards in all operational areas.
• Coordinate with the culinary team to ensure smooth execution of menu items and service standards.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement corrective actions promptly.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate favorable terms for supplies and services.
• Contribute to operational cost reduction initiatives without compromising quality.
• Conduct regular site inspections and audits to maintain operational integrity.
• Collaborate with sales and client relations teams to ensure seamless event execution.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in catering operations management or a similar field.
• Demonstrated success in optimizing operational efficiency and cost management within the hospitality sector.
• Strong knowledge of food and beverage operations, logistics, and supply chain management.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations relevant to catering and food service.
• Proficiency in using catering management software and relevant technology.
• Ability to manage budgets and financial performance indicators for operations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective team and client interaction.
• Must be comfortable with a hybrid work model, requiring both remote work and on-site presence in Tembisa, Gauteng .
• A relevant qualification in Hospitality or Operations Management is advantageous.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary and a hybrid work arrangement, providing a balance between professional responsibilities and personal flexibility.
• Our client provides opportunities for professional growth and development, including ongoing training in operational best practices.
• Employees also receive health benefits and paid time off.

Join a dynamic team and contribute to the operational success of a leading catering service in Tembisa, Gauteng .