Senior Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Hybrid work model

Career development opportunities

Competitive remuneration

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Operations Manager to oversee and optimize extensive catering activities in Cape Town, Western Cape. The role blends hands-on operations with strategic planning, requiring leadership of on-site teams and coordination of remote initiatives.

You will supervise staff, manage menus and costing, control inventory, and ensure health and safety compliance across events from corporate functions to weddings.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years in catering management or hospitality operations.
• Strong leadership with large teams.
• Deep knowledge of F&B operations, menu planning, and event logistics.
• Solid understanding of health and safety regulations in food service.
• Excellent budgeting, cost control, and financial awareness.
• Proven problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience with hybrid work models and managing remote teams is a plus.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality Management or related field.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of catering operations, including staff supervision, event execution, and quality control.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service delivery.
• Oversee menu engineering, costing, and presentation to align with client expectations and market trends.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships for optimal stock levels and pricing.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations across catering activities.
• Train, mentor, and evaluate catering staff to foster a high-performance team culture.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to develop innovative catering packages and promotions.
• Handle client feedback and resolve operational issues promptly and professionally.
• Manage budgets, P&L statements, and financial reporting for the catering department.
• Contribute to strategic planning and business development initiatives of the hospitality group.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting & P&L

Food & Beverage Ops

Team Management

Supplier Management

Hybrid Work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management / Business Administration

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading hospitality group seeking an experienced Senior Catering Operations Manager to oversee and optimize their extensive catering operations in Cape Town, Western Cape. This dynamic hybrid role requires a strategic leader who can manage both on-site teams and remote strategic planning. You will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of service, quality, and efficiency across all catering events, from corporate lunches to elaborate weddings. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of food and beverage operations, exceptional leadership skills, and a proven track record in managing complex logistical challenges within the catering sector. This position offers a unique blend of hands-on operational oversight and strategic development, contributing significantly to the continued success and growth of our client's prestigious catering division.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of catering operations, including staff supervision, event execution, and quality control.


• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service delivery.


• Oversee menu engineering, costing, and presentation to ensure alignment with client expectations and market trends.


• Manage inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships to ensure optimal stock levels and competitive pricing.


• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations across all catering activities.


• Train, mentor, and evaluate catering staff to foster a high-performance team culture.


• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop and execute innovative catering packages and promotions.


• Handle client feedback and resolve any operational issues promptly and professionally.


• Manage budgets, P&L statements, and financial reporting for the catering department.


• Contribute to the strategic planning and business development initiatives of the hospitality group.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in catering management or hospitality operations.


• Proven leadership experience with the ability to motivate and manage large teams.


• In-depth knowledge of food and beverage operations, menu planning, and event logistics.


• Strong understanding of health and safety regulations within the food service industry.


• Excellent financial acumen, including budgeting, P&L management, and cost control.


• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills.


• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.


• Experience with hybrid work models and managing remote teams is a plus.


• Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.


• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and development within a renowned hospitality group.


• Employees benefit from a dynamic and supportive work environment, access to ongoing training programs, and the chance to shape the future of catering services in Cape Town.


• This hybrid role provides the flexibility to balance remote strategic work with essential on-site operational leadership.


• You will be part of a company that values teamwork, innovation, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.


• The role comes with significant responsibility and the potential for career advancement within the group.