Remote Senior Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Competitive salary

Career growth

Access to management tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Operations Manager to oversee a nationwide remote portfolio of catering services. You will drive operational excellence, manage budgets, and lead remote teams across multiple sites with a strategic focus on efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in catering/hospitality with at least 4 years in senior leadership, strong budgeting, and proven ability to manage complex logistics from a distance.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in catering or hospitality management
• 4+ years in a senior leadership role overseeing multiple sites
• Experience in contract/event catering and managing budgets
• Strong leadership, communication and remote team management skills
• Knowledge of HACCP and health standards, with ability to enforce compliance

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day catering operations across multiple remote locations
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve goals
• Manage budgets, control costs and identify savings opportunities
• Lead, mentor and motivate remote teams
• Build and maintain strong client relationships and service levels
• Drive food safety, hygiene and quality control across operations
• Innovate with new concepts and improve processes
• Monitor performance metrics and report to senior management
• Collaborate with sales, procurement and HR for seamless support

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Remote team leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Problem solving

Food safety knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management / Business Administration

Tools

Catering management software

Office productivity tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading national catering solutions provider, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Catering Operations Manager to oversee their remote operations. This role is entirely remote, allowing you to manage a significant portfolio of catering services from the comfort of your home office. You will be responsible for driving operational excellence, optimizing efficiency, and ensuring the highest standards of service delivery across multiple client sites. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in large-scale catering management, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a strategic mindset. You will play a crucial role in managing budgets, enhancing client relationships, and implementing innovative operational strategies to support the company's growth nationwide. This is a key leadership position, requiring a proactive approach and the ability to manage complex logistics from a distance, working closely with teams based in various locations including Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .

Key Responsibilities

Oversee and manage day-to-day catering operations across multiple remote locations, ensuring efficiency and profitability. Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve company goals and enhance service delivery. Manage budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue enhancement. Lead, mentor, and motivate remote operational teams, fostering a culture of performance and accountability. Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, ensuring their needs are met and exceeded. Implement and enforce high standards of food safety, hygiene, and quality control across all operations. Drive innovation in catering services, introducing new concepts and improving existing processes. Monitor operational performance metrics and generate regular reports for senior management. Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, health and safety regulations, and company policies. Collaborate with sales, procurement, and HR departments to ensure seamless operational support.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in catering or hospitality management, with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role overseeing multiple sites. Proven experience managing large-scale catering operations, including contract catering and event catering. Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, control costs, and improve operational efficiency. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage remote teams effectively. Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Proficiency in using catering management software and standard office productivity tools. In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP) and health standards. Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines in a remote setting. A commitment to delivering exceptional client service and operational excellence.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering significant flexibility and autonomy. Our client provides a highly competitive salary package, reflecting the senior nature of the role and the responsibilities involved. You will have the opportunity to shape and drive the operational strategy of a growing national company. Access to advanced management tools and resources will be provided. This role offers excellent potential for career advancement within the organization. Enjoy the benefits of working from home while making a significant impact on the company's success, overseeing operations that may include teams based in and around Durban and beyond.