Senior Catering Event Planner

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, seeks a highly creative Senior Catering Event Planner to concept, plan, and execute high-end catering events. You will translate client visions into flawless experiences, managing every detail from concept to post-event follow-up.

Hybrid role with on-site client meetings and event supervision. Requires 5+ years in catering event planning, strong budgets, vendor relationships, and a passion for exceptional client service.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of catering event planning experience.
• Proven track record of high-end events (corporate, social, weddings).
• Strong organizational, multitasking and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end planning and execution of complex catering events from client brief to post-event follow-up.
• Develop creative concepts, themes and layouts within client budget.
• Coordinate with clients, internal teams and external vendors to ensure seamless delivery.
• Manage event budgets and profitability, oversee site inspections and liaise with venues.

Skills

Event planning

Budget management

Client coordination

Vendor management

Communication

Tools

Event planning software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event catering company operating in Benoni, Gauteng , is seeking a highly creative and organized Senior Catering Event Planner. This role is responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and executing a diverse range of high-end catering events, ensuring unparalleled client satisfaction. The Senior Event Planner will work closely with clients to understand their vision, translate it into a flawless event experience, and manage all logistical and creative aspects. You will be a key player in maintaining our client's reputation for excellence and innovation in the competitive events industry. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced planner to take on more responsibility and lead impactful events in the Benoni area.

Key Responsibilities

Manage the end-to-end planning and execution of complex catering events, from initial client consultation to post-event follow-up. Develop creative event concepts, themes, and layouts tailored to client specifications and budget. Collaborate with clients to select menus, beverages, decor, and entertainment, ensuring a cohesive event vision. Coordinate with internal teams (culinary, operations, service staff) and external vendors (florists, venues, entertainment) to ensure seamless event delivery. Create detailed event timelines, run sheets, and logistical plans. Oversee event budgets, ensuring financial targets are met and profitability is maximized. Conduct site inspections and liaise with venue managers to ensure all event requirements are met. Provide exceptional client service throughout the planning process, acting as the primary point of contact. Manage crisis situations and troubleshoot any issues that arise during events calmly and effectively. Stay abreast of industry trends, new venues, and creative ideas to continually elevate event offerings.

Requirements

A minimum of 5 years of experience in event planning, specifically with a focus on catering and high-end events. Proven track record of successfully planning and executing diverse events (corporate, social, weddings). Exceptional organizational, multitasking, and project management skills. Strong creative vision and a keen eye for detail in design, decor, and execution. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in event planning software and Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and internal teams. Experience managing event budgets and financial reconciliation. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment. A passion for creating memorable experiences and a commitment to client satisfaction are essential for success in Benoni .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives. This hybrid role allows for flexibility, blending remote work with essential on-site client meetings and event supervision in Gauteng . You will have the opportunity to work on diverse and exciting events, contributing to the success of a leading catering company. Professional development opportunities and continuous learning will be provided. Join a collaborative and creative team environment dedicated to exceeding client expectations.

• Benefits include medical aid, a retirement fund, and paid annual leave.