Senior Catering Coordinator

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 300,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary package

Prestigious clients and venues

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Coordinator in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to lead high-end catering for weddings, corporate events, and wine-estate gatherings. You’ll be the primary client contact from inquiry to post-event follow-up, coordinating with culinary, logistics, and venue teams to ensure flawless execution.

The role combines in-office event planning with on-site supervision, offering a dynamic, client-focused environment in the heart of the Cape Winelands.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of catering coordination or client-facing hospitality experience.
• Proven ability to manage multiple high-profile events simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Strong planning, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the main point of contact for clients, managing inquiries and bookings.
• Develop detailed event proposals, contracts, and timelines with clear requirements.
• Coordinate with culinary team to design menus and accommodate dietary requests.
• Oversee logistics including staffing, equipment, transport, and venue setup.
• Manage budgets, track expenses, and ensure profitability of each event.
• Conduct site inspections and client walk-throughs to finalize details.
• Supervise event staff during service and ensure guest satisfaction.
• Address issues promptly and conduct post-event evaluations with clients.

Skills

Client communication

Event management

Negotiation

Organizational skills

Team collaboration

Tools

MS Office Suite

Event planning software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished catering and hospitality company based in the picturesque Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking a highly organized and experienced Senior Catering Coordinator. This role is central to ensuring the flawless execution of high-end catering services for a variety of events, including weddings, corporate functions, and wine estate gatherings. You will be the primary point of contact for clients, managing events from initial inquiry through to post-event follow-up. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional communication, planning, and problem-solving skills, with a proven ability to manage multiple complex events simultaneously. You will work closely with the culinary team, logistics managers, and venue staff to deliver an unparalleled client experience. This hybrid role offers a mix of in-office planning and on-site event supervision, providing a dynamic and engaging work environment within the heart of the Cape Winelands. If you have a passion for creating memorable experiences and excel in a client-focused role, this position in Stellenbosch is an excellent opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the main point of contact for clients, managing event inquiries, consultations, and bookings.
• Develop detailed event proposals, contracts, and timelines, ensuring all client requirements are clearly documented.
• Coordinate closely with the culinary team to design customized menus and accommodate special dietary requests.
• Oversee event logistics, including staffing, equipment, transportation, and venue setup, ensuring seamless execution.
• Manage event budgets, track expenses, and ensure profitability for each catered function.
• Conduct site inspections and client walk-throughs to finalize event details and arrangements.
• Supervise event staff during service periods, ensuring high standards of professionalism and guest satisfaction.
• Address and resolve any issues or challenges that arise during events promptly and effectively.
• Conduct post-event evaluations with clients and internal teams to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.
• Maintain accurate client records and event documentation.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in catering coordination, event management, or a similar client-facing hospitality role.
• Demonstrated success in managing multiple high-profile events simultaneously.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Strong organizational abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in event planning software and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends as needed.
• Knowledge of food and beverage service standards and event logistics.
• Experience in the Stellenbosch or surrounding Winelands area is a significant advantage.
• A passion for hospitality and creating exceptional client experiences.
• A valid driver's license and reliable transportation are essential.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Opportunity to work with prestigious clients and venues in the Stellenbosch region.
• Be part of a dynamic and creative hospitality team.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Staff discounts on catering services and venue hire.