Senior Catering Operations Lead

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Operations Lead to manage Mossel Bay’s busy catering operations. You will supervise staff, plan events from intimate gatherings to large corporate functions, and drive quality, safety, and financial performance.

Lead strategies to optimise efficiency, control costs, and develop a high-performing team while maintaining exceptional client service and brand reputation in the Mossel Bay region.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in catering management or senior operations.
• Experience managing high-volume catering and large events.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication.
• Knowledge of food & beverage operations and service standards.
• Proficiency in budgeting and inventory control systems.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Willingness to work weekends/public holidays.
• Based in Mossel Bay Western Cape or willing to relocate.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily catering operations, including staff supervision, event planning, and execution.
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency, quality, and profitability.
• Oversee menu planning, execution, and quality control.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and vendor relationships.
• Ensure health, safety, and hygiene compliance.
• Train and develop catering staff.
• Coordinate with clients and event planners.
• Manage budgets and cost-control measures.
• Address client feedback and operational challenges.
• Support business development and show catering capabilities.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Financial management

Budgeting

Inventory control

Problem-solving

Operations leadership

Education

Hospitality Management

Culinary Arts

Business Administration

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious hospitality group, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Catering Operations Lead to manage their bustling operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This pivotal role requires a leader with a proven track record in overseeing large-scale catering services, ensuring impeccable quality and client satisfaction. You will be responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and financial oversight of all catering activities, from intimate gatherings to large corporate events. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of culinary operations, and a passion for service excellence. This position demands meticulous attention to detail, the ability to manage complex logistics, and a commitment to fostering a high-performing team environment. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining and enhancing our client's reputation for delivering outstanding catering experiences in the Mossel Bay region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of daily catering operations, including staff supervision, event planning, and execution.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize efficiency, quality, and profitability.
• Oversee menu planning, execution, and quality control, ensuring alignment with client needs and culinary standards.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and vendor relationships to ensure cost-effectiveness and product quality.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene regulations within the catering department.
• Train, mentor, and develop catering staff to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate closely with clients and event planners to ensure all catering requirements are met and exceeded.
• Manage budgets, monitor expenses, and implement cost-control measures effectively.
• Address and resolve client feedback and operational challenges promptly and professionally.
• Contribute to business development and sales efforts by showcasing catering capabilities.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in catering management or a senior operational role within the hospitality industry.
• Demonstrated success in managing high-volume catering operations and large-scale events.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food and beverage operations, culinary trends, and service standards.
• Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and inventory control systems.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to operational challenges.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet demanding deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be flexible with working hours, including weekends and public holidays, as required by event schedules.
• A relevant qualification in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or Business Administration is preferred.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Mossel Bay, Western Cape area.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflective of your experience and expertise.
• This includes opportunities for professional development, potential for career advancement within the group, and a dynamic work environment.
• Employees are provided with health insurance benefits and paid leave.
• This is an excellent opportunity to lead and make a significant impact on the catering services in the beautiful coastal town of Mossel Bay .