Head of Catering Operations - Lead High-Impact Events

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

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.