Project Manager

Empact Group; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A catering solutions provider in South Africa is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee daily operations of a catering unit. The ideal candidate will manage food production, service delivery, and client satisfaction while ensuring compliance with standards. A relevant degree and 10+ years of hospitality management experience are essential. This role demands leadership in innovative event execution and financial management.

Qualifications

• 10+ years’ experience in catering or hospitality management.
• Project management experience within hospitality or catering is advantageous.
• Strong financial acumen in costing, budgeting, and forecasting.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily unit operations in line with strategy, contracts, and compliance standards.
• Oversee the execution of creative events and catering functions.
• Ensure SLA adherence and client satisfaction.

Skills

Strong understanding of catering and hospitality operations

Proven leadership, communication, and organizational skills

Expertise in financial management and reporting

Exceptional customer service orientation and event execution

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality, Culinary Arts, or Food & Beverage Services

Job description

We’re looking for an experienced Project Manager to take ownership of a catering unit leading daily operations, ensuring the highest food service standards, and driving innovative, client-focused events and functions. As the Project Manager, you’ll be responsible for managing the assigned unit in alignment with the sector’s strategic objectives, contractual requirements, and compliance standards. You’ll oversee food production, service delivery, team performance, and client satisfaction — ensuring the seamless execution of all catering operations.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality, Culinary Arts, or Food & Beverage Services (preferred)
• 10+ years’ experience in catering or hospitality management (essential)
• Proven track record in competitive and sensitive markets
• Project management experience within hospitality or catering (advantageous)
• Experience in change management and unit mobilization (beneficial)
• Strong financial acumen in costing, budgeting, and forecasting
• Leadership experience in managing diverse teams
• Valid driver’s license

Key Areas of Responsibility:

Operational Excellence

• Manage daily unit operations in line with strategy, contracts, and compliance standards
• Ensure efficient, high-quality food production and service delivery
• Oversee the execution of creative events and catering functions

Menu & Food Production Oversight

• Lead menu planning, standardization, and costing
• Maintain consistency and quality across all food offerings
• Drive innovation and profitability

Financial & Administrative Control

• Oversee sales capture, stock control, and banking
• Monitor GP margins and maintain budget targets
• Manage electronic ordering and reporting systems

Compliance & Governance

• Uphold food safety, hygiene, and health regulations
• Maintain accurate compliance records

People Leadership

• Manage workforce planning, payroll, and performance
• Foster teamwork, accountability, and a culture of excellence

Client & Service Excellence

• Ensure SLA adherence and client satisfaction
• Drive continuous improvement through feedback and insights

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of catering and hospitality operations
• Comprehensive knowledge of industry regulations and compliance
• Proven leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Expertise in financial management and reporting
• Exceptional customer service orientation and event execution