Senior Catering Event Planner

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits plan

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Event Planner based in Randburg, Gauteng. You will lead end-to-end catering events, manage budgeting and vendor relationships, and coordinate on-site execution with a client-focused approach.

Ideal candidates demonstrate strong leadership, exceptional communication, and a track record of delivering high-profile events in Randburg and nearby areas. Travel to sites will be required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6+ years in event planning with catering focus.
• Proven ability to manage complex events from conception to completion.
• Excellent understanding of catering operations, menus, and presentation.
• Strong vendor negotiation and management skills.
• Exceptional organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal and client-facing skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute a wide range of catering events from intimate dinners to large corporate functions.
• Conduct thorough client consultations to understand vision, requirements, and budget.
• Develop creative event concepts and detailed proposals with menu and décor ideas.
• Source, negotiate with, and manage relationships with external vendors (venues, florists, entertainment).
• Create and manage detailed event timelines and production schedules.
• Oversee event budgets for cost-effectiveness and profitability.

Skills

Event planning

Vendor management

Budgeting

On-site coordination

Leadership

Communication

Client consultations

Menu planning

Food presentation

Negotiation

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly sought-after catering and event management company in Randburg, Gauteng, is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Catering Event Planner. This pivotal role involves managing all facets of event planning and execution for a diverse clientele, ensuring that each event is a unique and memorable success. You will be responsible for client consultations, conceptualization, vendor management, budget oversight, and on-site coordination. We are looking for a highly organized, creative, and client-focused individual with a proven track record in delivering exceptional events. This is a hands-on role requiring strong leadership and excellent communication skills, based primarily at our Randburg office but with significant on-site event presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute a wide range of catering events, from intimate dinners to large corporate functions.
• Conduct thorough client consultations to understand their vision, requirements, and budget.
• Develop creative event concepts and detailed proposals, including menu suggestions and décor ideas.
• Source, negotiate with, and manage relationships with external vendors (venues, florists, entertainment, etc.).
• Create and manage detailed event timelines and production schedules.
• Oversee event budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Provide on-site supervision during events to ensure seamless execution and troubleshoot any issues.
• Collaborate closely with the catering operations and culinary teams to align services with event plans.
• Manage client expectations and ensure consistent communication throughout the planning process.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and gather client feedback for continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in event planning and management, with a strong focus on catering.
• Proven ability to manage complex events from conception to completion.
• Excellent understanding of catering operations, menu planning, and food presentation.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Exceptional organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and client-facing skills.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by event schedules.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and have access to reliable transportation for site visits in and around Randburg.
• A creative mindset with a keen eye for detail and aesthetics.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits plan. You will be part of a dynamic and prestigious event management team, working on high-profile events within Randburg and surrounding areas. Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the company are available. This role provides the satisfaction of creating truly special occasions for a discerning clientele.