Senior Catering Event Manager

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 540,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Lifestyle in Paarl region

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Event Manager in the Paarl region of the Western Cape to oversee end-to-end catering events for high-profile clients. The role requires a strategic, client-focused leader who can manage complex events from conception through execution, collaborating closely with culinary and operations teams to deliver exceptional experiences.

You will drive detailed planning, lead on-site teams, and ensure budgets and timelines are met while maintaining the brand's

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years in event or catering management with client-facing focus.
• Proven track record of managing complex, high-end events.
• Strong understanding of catering operations, F&B service, and venue logistics.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead and motivate teams and work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end management of all catered events.
• Develop detailed event plans with timelines, staffing, menus, and budgets.
• Serve as primary client contact and realize their vision.
• Collaborate with culinary team on menus.
• Manage event logistics, vendor coordination, equipment rental, on-site setup.
• Lead and motivate on-site event staff.
• Monitor budgets and profitability targets.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and collect client feedback.
• Maintain knowledge of industry trends and best practices.
• Foster relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal teams.

Skills

Client-facing

Team leadership

Budget management

Vendor management

Education

Hospitality Management degree

Tools

MS Office Suite

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished events company specializing in bespoke catering and venue management in the heart of the Western Cape's wine region, is seeking a highly experienced and detail-oriented Senior Catering Event Manager for their operations in Paarl. This crucial role demands a strategic thinker with a proven ability to orchestrate seamless, high-caliber events from conception to completion. You will be the driving force behind client satisfaction, ensuring every aspect of the catering experience, from initial brief to final execution, exceeds expectations. This position requires a deep understanding of culinary trends, impeccable logistical planning, and exceptional client relationship management skills. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, managing multiple complex events concurrently and leading a dedicated team of catering and event professionals. You will be instrumental in maintaining and enhancing the company's reputation for excellence in the competitive Paarl events market. This is an opportunity to manage prestigious events and contribute to the continued success of a respected brand in a breathtaking location.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end management of all catered events, ensuring flawless execution and client satisfaction.
• Develop detailed event plans, including timelines, staffing schedules, menus, and budgets.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, providing expert guidance and ensuring their vision is realized.
• Collaborate closely with the culinary team to design innovative and tailored menus that meet client needs and preferences.
• Manage event logistics, including vendor coordination, equipment rental, and on-site setup.
• Lead and motivate on-site event staff, ensuring professional service delivery.
• Monitor event budgets, track expenditures, and ensure profitability targets are met.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and client feedback sessions to identify areas for improvement.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, best practices, and emerging concepts in catering and events.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal teams.

Requirements

• A minimum of 6 years of experience in event management and/or catering management, with a strong emphasis on client-facing roles.
• Proven ability to manage complex, high-end events with a focus on detailed planning and execution.
• Excellent understanding of catering operations, food and beverage service, and venue logistics.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience in managing and motivating teams.
• Proficiency in event management software and MS Office Suite.
• A relevant degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Business, or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules.
• A creative mindset with a passion for delivering unique and memorable guest experiences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• You will have opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading events company.
• The role comes with the advantage of working in the stunning Paarl region, offering a superb lifestyle.
• Additional benefits include subsidized meals, generous annual leave, and a supportive team environment.
• This position provides the chance to manage truly exceptional events and work within a company that values quality, creativity, and client dedication.