Lead Catering Operations Specialist

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance incentives

Remote work

Professional development allowance

Dynamic work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Catering Operations Specialist to manage remote service delivery and optimize logistics for a premier catering provider. You will drive efficiency, oversee procurement and inventory, and lead cross-functional teams to ensure top-tier client satisfaction and event execution.

The role requires 6+ years in operations/logistics within food service, strong data analytics, SOP development, and virtual leadership capabilities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years in operations, supply chain, or logistics in food service/catering.
• Experience leading remote teams and implementing new processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for data interpretation.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management across levels.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead development and implementation of operational strategies to improve efficiency and service quality in catering.
• Oversee supply chain logistics: procurement, inventory, and vendor relations.
• Develop and refine SOPs for catering functions to ensure consistency and excellence.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and culinary teams to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.
• Provide remote leadership and support to on-site teams, fostering accountability and continuous improvement.

Skills

Strategic ops leadership

Supply chain management

Remote team leadership

Inventory management

Vendor relations

Data analysis

Tools

Operational software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Catering Operations Specialist to manage and enhance their catering service delivery from a remote capacity. This crucial role involves optimizing operational efficiency, ensuring high standards of service, and fostering strong relationships with both internal teams and external partners. You will be responsible for driving best practices in logistics, inventory management, and client satisfaction, all while leveraging technology to coordinate effectively across distances. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned operations professional to shape the future of a dynamic catering business, offering the flexibility and autonomy of a fully remote position.

Key Responsibilities

• Spearhead the development and implementation of innovative operational strategies to improve efficiency and service quality in catering.
• Oversee and manage supply chain logistics, including procurement, inventory management, and vendor relations.
• Develop and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all catering functions to ensure consistency and excellence.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for enhancement.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and culinary teams to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.
• Provide remote leadership and support to on-site operational teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in operations management, supply chain, or logistics, with a significant focus on the food service or catering industry.
• Demonstrated experience in leading operational improvements and implementing new processes.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Proven ability to manage remote teams and drive results through effective virtual communication and collaboration.
• Strong understanding of inventory management systems and operational software.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of building strong relationships across all levels.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary and performance-based incentives.
• Fully remote work arrangement with flexible hours.
• Generous allowance for professional development and training.
• A dynamic work environment that encourages innovation and strategic thinking.
• Opportunity to significantly influence the operational direction of a leading catering service provider.