Mobile Catering Unit Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 280,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Own unit

Comprehensive training

UIF fund

Advancement opportunities

Fuel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mobile Catering Unit Manager to oversee a busy mobile unit in the Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape region. You will lead day-to-day operations, supervise staff, manage inventory and ensure HACCP-compliant food preparation and service.

You will drive the unit to various locations, maintain high standards of customer service, handle finances, and collaborate with head office on menus and promotions, while delivering consistent, quality experiences for clients.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years in a supervisory or management role within food service/catering.
• Experience with mobile catering or food trucks is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to manage staff, inventory and daily operations.
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP and health regulations.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license with clean record; willingness to travel within Port Elizabeth area.

Responsibilities

• Manage all daily operations for a mobile catering unit, ensuring efficiency and profitability.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking and service to high quality standards.
• Control inventory including ordering, receiving and stock rotation.
• Supervise and train unit staff and enforce company policies.
• Ensure health and safety compliance (HACCP, hygiene).
• Manage unit finances: cash handling, sales tracking and expenses.

Skills

Leadership

Staff supervision

Customer service

Inventory management

Food safety

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and expanding food service provider operating a fleet of modern mobile catering units, is looking for a motivated Mobile Catering Unit Manager to oversee operations in and around Port Elizabeth. This role is hands‑on and requires a candidate with strong leadership skills, a passion for quality food, and excellent customer service abilities. You will be responsible for managing the day‑to‑day operations of a specific mobile unit, including food preparation, inventory management, staff supervision, health and safety compliance, and ensuring customer satisfaction. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a growing business in the Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape region, managing a fast‑paced and customer‑focused catering service.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of daily operations for a mobile catering unit, ensuring efficiency and profitability.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and service, maintaining high standards of quality and presentation.
• Manage inventory of food and supplies, including ordering, receiving, and stock rotation.
• Supervise and train unit staff, ensuring they adhere to company policies and service standards.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations (e.g., HACCP).
• Manage unit finances, including cash handling, sales tracking, and expense management.
• Maintain the cleanliness and operational readiness of the mobile catering unit and its equipment.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and handle customer inquiries or complaints effectively.
• Plan menus and specials in coordination with head office, considering customer feedback and local demand.
• Drive the unit to various locations as per the operational schedule.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a supervisory or management role within the food service or catering industry.
• Experience with mobile catering or food truck operations is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to manage staff, inventory, and daily operations.
• Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene standards, and health regulations.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions.
• Valid driver's license (Code 10 or equivalent preferred) with a clean driving record.
• Flexibility to work varied hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, often involving travel within the Port Elizabeth area.
• Basic financial management skills (cash handling, reporting).
• A passion for food and delivering great customer experiences.
• Ability to perform physical tasks associated with a mobile kitchen environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Opportunity to manage your own unit and contribute to business growth.
• Comprehensive training and support from head office.
• Exposure to diverse locations and events.
• Contribution to a UIF fund.
• Potential for advancement within the company.
• Fuel and maintenance allowance for the unit.