Senior Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package commensurate with role

Performance-based incentives

Professional development and training

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Catering Operations Manager to lead Mossel Bay operations on-site, ensuring top service, quality and efficiency across events. You will manage staff, optimize resources and uphold health and safety standards in a dynamic hospitality setting.

The role emphasizes hands-on leadership, cost control, and collaboration with sales and planning teams to deliver exceptional client experiences while maintaining a high-performance team culture.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years in catering operations management or similar role.
• Experience managing large-scale catering operations and diverse events.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all catering operations including food prep, service, setup, and breakdown.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, profitability, and client satisfaction.
• Lead, train and motivate the catering team to deliver excellence.

Skills

Operational leadership

Staff management

Cost control

Inventory management

Health & safety

Communication

Event operations

Education

Hospitality management qualification

Tools

Microsoft Office

POS systems

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished player in the hospitality and event catering sector, is seeking a seasoned Senior Catering Operations Manager to lead their operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This critical role involves overseeing the day-to-day management of all catering activities, ensuring the highest standards of service, quality, and efficiency are met. You will be responsible for managing staff, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring client satisfaction across a diverse range of events. The ideal candidate will possess a strong operational background, excellent leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of the unique demands of catering in the beautiful Mossel Bay region. This is a hands-on, on-site role focused on driving operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of catering operations, including food preparation, service delivery, event setup, and breakdown.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, profitability, and client satisfaction.
• Lead, train, and motivate the catering team, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Manage inventory, supplies, and equipment, ensuring optimal stock levels and cost-effective procurement.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with the sales and event planning teams to ensure seamless execution of client events.
• Monitor and control operational costs, including food, labor, and supplies, to meet budget objectives.
• Develop and implement quality control measures to maintain high standards in food and service.
• Handle client inquiries, feedback, and resolve any operational issues promptly and professionally.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure reliable and cost-effective sourcing.
• Analyze operational performance and implement improvements to enhance overall efficiency.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in catering operations management or a similar role, preferably within the Mossel Bay, Western Cape area.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale catering operations and diverse event types.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and manage a team.
• Excellent understanding of food and beverage operations, inventory management, and cost control.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with event management or POS systems.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and hygiene standards in the food service industry.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing demands.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules.
• A qualification in Hospitality Management or a related field is a plus.
• Must be a results-oriented individual with a strong commitment to service excellence.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package commensurate with experience and responsibilities.
• Performance-based incentives and bonuses.
• Opportunity to lead operations for a well-respected catering company in a desirable location.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Generous paid time off.
• Staff meals and discounts on company services.
• A collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Exposure to a wide range of prestigious events.
• Potential for career growth within the organization.
• Contribution to a company committed to exceptional client experiences.