Project Manager

Empact Group; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering and hospitality firm is seeking a skilled Project Manager to oversee large-scale catering operations, ensuring adherence to regulations and project goals. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in catering project management, particularly in industrial settings, and proven skills in financial planning, operational efficiency, and stakeholder engagement. Join us to lead innovative catering solutions while optimizing service delivery and compliance within a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in catering project management.
• Experience overseeing large-scale kitchen operations catering to 2000+ individuals.
• Proven ability to manage unit mobilization and change implementation programs.

Responsibilities

• Manage catering and hospitality projects from initiation to completion.
• Oversee unit mobilization and change programs.
• Develop and implement standardized menus and costing strategies.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder management

Operational efficiencies

Financial planning

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality or related fields

Job description

Overview

Main Purpose Of The Role We are seeking a skilled Project Manager to oversee and drive the successful execution of catering and hospitality projects in alignment with sector strategy, contractual obligations, and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will have strong experience managing large-scale catering operations, particularly in industrial sites and centralized kitchens serving 2000+ individuals. This role requires expertise in project execution, process optimization, and stakeholder management within a high-demand environment.

Education & Experience

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality, Food & Beverage Services, or Culinary Arts (preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in catering project management, preferably within commercial and or industrial catering.
• Experience overseeing large-scale kitchen operations catering to 2000+ individuals.
• Industrial site exposure is highly advantageous.
• Proven ability to manage unit mobilization and change implementation programs.
• Strong background in competitive and sensitive markets.
• Experience in costing, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Familiarity with working within brand guidelines to drive successful outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience in managing teams and optimizing operational efficiencies.
• A valid driver’s license is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage catering and hospitality projects from initiation to completion, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Oversee unit mobilization, change programs, and large-scale food production processes.
• Ensure successful execution of catering operations within industrial and high-volume environments.
• Optimize workflow efficiencies, ensuring high-quality service delivery to clients.
• Develop and implement standardized menus, costing strategies, and process improvements.
• Oversee financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and profit optimization.
• Monitor stock levels, procurement, and supply chain efficiency.
• Implement and maintain electronic meal ordering systems.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards, maintaining accurate records.
• Lead workforce planning, payroll administration, and performance management.
• Enhance customer experience by gathering feedback and making data-driven improvements.
• Ensure strict adherence to client service level agreements and operational excellence.

Knowledge, Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of catering operations in industrial and hospital environments.
• Knowledge of South African industry regulations and compliance standards.
• Exceptional project management, organizational, and operational leadership skills.
• Effective stakeholder engagement and communication abilities.
• Expertise in financial planning, cost management, and process optimization.
• Ability to analyze data and reports for continuous improvement.
• Strong problem-solving and strategic planning skills.

If you have a proven track record in delivering large-scale catering projects and driving operational excellence, we invite you to apply!

Empact Group is committed to Employment Equity in line with legislation and will give first preference to candidates as per Equity requirements.

By applying for a role within Empact Group (Proprietary) Limited, all Personal Information that you provide to the Company will be held and/ or stored securely for the purpose of recruitment. Your Personal Information will be stored electronically in a database. Where appropriate, some information may be retained in hard copy. In either event, storage will be secure and audited regularly regarding the safety and security of the information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (“POPI”).