On-Site Mobile Kitchen Manager – Events & Catering

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career advancement

Exposure to diverse events

Supportive team

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Event Catering Manager for the Mahikeng region. You will lead planning, execution and post-event evaluation of premium catering services for corporate functions, weddings and private parties.

You will manage client expectations, budgets, staffing and vendor relationships while ensuring top-tier food safety and presentation standards. This role requires evenings, weekends, and holidays as schedules demand.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in catering management or event coordination.
• Strong understanding of catering operations, menu planning, service standards and event logistics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills for client and team interactions.
• Proficiency with event planning software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to manage budgets, control costs and maximise profitability.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage detailed event plans including menus, staffing, equipment and timelines.
• Oversee setup, execution and breakdown of catering services with adherence to health and safety standards.
• Lead and motivate a catering team with clear direction and performance feedback.
• Liaise with clients to understand needs and manage changes or special requests.
• Source ingredients and supplies, manage inventory and negotiate with vendors for cost efficiency.
• Conduct post-event debriefs to gather feedback and drive improvements.
• Collaborate with sales/marketing to develop new packages for Mahikeng area.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety regulations and company policies.

Job description

Event Catering Manager - Mahikeng

Our client, a leading provider of premium catering services in the Mahikeng region, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Event Catering Manager. This role is crucial in ensuring the seamless execution of high-quality events, from initial client consultation through to post-event evaluation. You will be instrumental in driving customer satisfaction and maintaining our client's reputation for excellence. The successful candidate will be passionate about hospitality, possess exceptional organisational skills, and have a proven ability to manage complex logistical challenges within a fast‑paced environment. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to memorable culinary experiences across corporate functions, weddings, and private parties.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage detailed event plans, including menus, staffing, equipment, and timelines, ensuring alignment with client expectations and budgetary constraints.
• Oversee the setup, execution, and breakdown of catering services for various events, ensuring impeccable presentation and adherence to health and safety standards.
• Lead and motivate a team of catering staff, providing clear direction, training, and performance feedback to ensure optimal service delivery.
• Liaise directly with clients to understand their specific needs, provide expert recommendations, and manage any changes or special requests effectively.
• Source high-quality ingredients and supplies, manage inventory and negotiate with vendors to achieve cost efficiencies without compromising on quality.
• Conduct post‑event debriefs to gather feedback, identify areas for improvement, and ensure client satisfaction.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop new catering packages and promote services within the Mahikeng area.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety regulations and company policies.

Requirements

• Proven experience (minimum 5 years) in a similar catering management or event coordination role, preferably within the hospitality industry.
• Strong understanding of catering operations, menu planning, food and beverage service standards, and event logistics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients and manage diverse teams.
• Proficiency in event planning software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, control costs, and maximise profitability.
• A passion for food and a keen eye for detail in presentation and service.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Based in or willing to relocate to the vicinity of Mahikeng.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic and respected catering company.
• Exposure to a wide variety of exciting events and clientele.
• Potential for career advancement within the organisation.
• Contribution to creating memorable experiences for clients in Mahikeng.
• Supportive team environment.