Senior Catering Event Planner

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Growth opportunities

Medical and retirement benefits

Exclusive venues access

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Event Planner for on-site leadership in Centurion, Gauteng. You will design bespoke culinary experiences, manage client consultations, and drive end-to-end event execution with meticulous attention to detail.

The role requires hands-on involvement with venues and vendors, long hours including evenings and weekends, and the ability to lead teams to deliver memorable occasions for discerning clients.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years in event planning with strong catering focus.
• Proven success delivering high-end corporate and private events.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Consult with clients to translate event vision and budget into detailed catering plans.
• Create innovative menu proposals with culinary teams for top-quality execution.
• Coordinate venues, vendors (florists, decorators, entertainment), staffing, and timelines.
• Oversee on-site event delivery, ensuring service consistency and schedule adherence.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and client debriefs for improvement insights.
• Manage event budgets to ensure profitability and client satisfaction.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, vendors, and internal teams.
• Stay informed on industry trends and cutting-edge catering concepts.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Negotiation

Client relationship management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or related field

Tools

Event management software

Office applications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event management and catering company, is seeking an experienced Senior Catering Event Planner to lead the conceptualization and execution of bespoke events in Centurion, Gauteng. This role is perfect for a creative visionary with a meticulous eye for detail and a proven ability to manage complex logistical challenges. You will be responsible for designing unforgettable culinary experiences, coordinating all aspects from initial client consultation to post-event analysis, and ensuring unparalleled client satisfaction. This is a demanding yet rewarding position based on-site in the heart of Centurion, offering the chance to shape memorable occasions for a discerning clientele. The role requires hands-on involvement in event spaces and client interactions, making it essential to be based within the Centurion area. We are looking for a leader who can inspire their team and uphold the highest standards of event planning and catering excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Consult with clients to understand their event vision, needs, and budget, translating these into detailed catering and event plans.
• Develop innovative and customized menu proposals, working closely with culinary teams to ensure exceptional quality and presentation.
• Manage all logistical aspects of events, including venue selection, vendor coordination (florists, decorators, entertainment), staffing, and timeline management.
• Oversee event execution on-site, ensuring seamless service delivery, adherence to the schedule, and prompt resolution of any issues that may arise.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and client debriefings to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.
• Manage event budgets effectively, ensuring profitability while meeting client expectations.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, vendors, and internal teams to ensure collaborative success.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, innovative catering techniques, and unique event concepts to offer cutting-edge solutions.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of experience in event planning, with a significant focus on catering management and high-end events.
• Demonstrated success in planning and executing a wide range of events, from corporate galas to intimate celebrations.
• Exceptional organizational, project management, and time management skills.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management capabilities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client relationship management skills.
• A creative flair with a strong sense of aesthetics and an understanding of culinary trends.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Marketing, or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by event schedules.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting your expertise and experience.
• Performance-driven bonuses and recognition programs.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development in the event planning industry.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• A dynamic, creative, and collaborative work environment.
• Access to exclusive venues and high-profile events.
• Generous annual leave allowance.