Senior Catering Operations Lead

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Operations Lead in Gauteng to oversee daily catering operations, drive quality, cost control, and client satisfaction. You will manage kitchen staff, inventory, and logistics, while aligning service delivery with events and client expectations.

The role blends on-site leadership with strategic remote tasks, demands a track record in fast-paced catering environments, strong adherence to health and safety standards, and excellent people management skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in catering operations management with leadership experience.
• Experience managing kitchen staff, inventory, and operational logistics.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Excellent organizational, multitasking, and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and stakeholder relationship skills.
• Experience in menu planning and cost analysis.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
• Hybrid work capability balancing on-site duties with strategic remote tasks.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily catering operations (food prep, service, delivery).
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen and service staff.
• Manage inventory: ordering, stock levels, waste reduction.
• Ensure health, safety, and hygiene standards are met.
• Coordinate with event planners and clients for flawless execution.
• Develop and implement procedures to improve efficiency and service quality.
• Monitor costs and implement cost-optimization strategies.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback.
• Troubleshoot operational issues promptly.
• Contribute to strategic planning and service development initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Inventory control

Food safety

Cost analysis

Menu planning

Team training

Communication

Education

Hospitality Management

Tools

MS Office

Catering software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Catering Operations Lead to join our dynamic team in Tembisa, Gauteng . This pivotal role will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of our catering services, ensuring the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and client satisfaction. You will play a crucial part in managing our kitchen staff, inventory, logistics, and client relations, contributing significantly to the success of events and services we provide. This hybrid role offers the best of both worlds, combining essential on-site operational oversight with the flexibility to contribute strategically through remote work. You will be a key player in driving operational excellence and fostering a positive work environment for the catering team. We are looking for a leader with a proven track record in the catering industry, capable of inspiring teams and delivering outstanding results.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage all aspects of daily catering operations, including food preparation, service, and delivery.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen and service staff, fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork.
• Manage inventory control, including ordering supplies, monitoring stock levels, and minimizing waste.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene standards and regulations.
• Coordinate with event planners and clients to understand their specific catering needs and ensure flawless execution.
• Develop and implement operational procedures to enhance efficiency and service quality.
• Monitor operational costs and implement strategies for cost optimization.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues promptly and effectively.
• Contribute to strategic planning and service development initiatives.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in catering operations management, with a strong emphasis on leadership.
• Proven ability to manage kitchen staff, inventory, and operational logistics.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with staff and clients.
• Experience in menu planning and cost analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
• A relevant qualification in Hospitality Management or Culinary Arts is advantageous.
• Flexibility to work a hybrid schedule, balancing on-site responsibilities with remote strategic tasks.
• Proficiency in relevant catering software and standard office applications.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth within a reputable catering company. You will enjoy a hybrid work model that provides a balance between on-site engagement and remote flexibility. We provide a supportive team environment, continuous training, and the chance to be part of exciting culinary projects and events. Join us and make a significant contribution to our esteemed catering operations.