Senior Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Significant bonus potential

Career growth and advancement

Exposure to high-profile events

Ongoing training and development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Operations Manager to lead extensive catering operations in Centurion, Gauteng. You will drive strategic planning, oversee food production, events, logistics, and staffing, and ensure profitability and safety standards.

You will mentor a large team, optimize procurement, and collaborate with sales and event teams to deliver exceptional client experiences. Flexible hours and a dynamic, high-performance environment are expected.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in catering operations management.
• 3+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven budgeting, P&L responsibility and cost control experience.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations (HACCP).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency and service quality.
• Oversee all aspects of catering operations including food production, event execution, logistics, and staffing.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and achieve profitability targets.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performance catering team.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards (HACCP).
• Negotiate contracts and oversee procurement with suppliers for quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing and event planning teams for seamless client experiences.
• Analyze operational data to identify improvements and implement corrective actions.
• Conduct site inspections and audits to maintain service excellence.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in catering management.

Skills

Catering operations management

Leadership

Budgeting & P&L

Food safety HACCP

Strategic planning

Team development

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or Business Administration

Tools

Microsoft Office

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event and hospitality group, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Catering Operations Manager to lead their extensive catering operations in Centurion, Gauteng . This leadership role involves strategic planning, operational oversight, and team management to ensure the delivery of exceptional catering services for a wide range of prestigious events. You will be responsible for optimizing efficiency, controlling costs, maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety, and fostering a culture of excellence among your team. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in large-scale catering management, strong financial acumen, and outstanding leadership capabilities. This is a significant opportunity to influence the success of a leading player in the event services industry in Centurion .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance catering operational efficiency and service quality.
• Oversee all aspects of catering operations, including food production, event execution, logistics, and staffing.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and ensure profitability targets are met or exceeded.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of catering professionals, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards (e.g., HACCP).
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and oversee procurement to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and event planning teams to ensure seamless client experiences.
• Analyze operational data to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.
• Conduct regular site inspections and audits to maintain service excellence.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, innovations, and best practices in catering management.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in catering operations management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience managing large-scale catering operations for diverse events.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, P&L responsibility, and cost control.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate large teams effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Excellent strategic planning and problem-solving capabilities.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in event management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Must be available to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules in Centurion .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Significant bonus potential based on performance.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a leading organization.
• Exposure to high-profile events and diverse clientele.
• Dynamic and challenging work environment.
• Access to ongoing training and development programs.
• Contribute to strategic decision-making within the company.
• Enjoy a collaborative team culture that values innovation and excellence.
• Be a key leader in the vibrant hospitality scene of Centurion .