Senior Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Performance bonuses

Medical and retirement benefits

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, seeks a seasoned Senior Catering Operations Manager to lead large-scale catering operations with profitability and top service standards. You will oversee daily operations, manage a diverse team, control budgets and drive efficiency.

Ideal candidates have 7+ years in catering ops, strong leadership, and a proven track record of achieving financial targets, while ensuring food safety and client satisfaction at premium events.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive catering operations management experience.
• Senior leadership experience with teams of varying sizes.
• Proven track record of meeting financial targets and profitability.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, health and hygiene standards.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with catering management software and MS Office Suite.
• Degree in Hospitality Management or Business Administration preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of catering operations including events, staffing, inventory and quality control.
• Develop and implement plans to improve efficiency, profitability and client satisfaction.
• Manage operational budgets, monitor financial performance and implement cost controls.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing catering team.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, hygiene and liquor regulations.
• Oversee procurement and inventory to optimize stock levels and reduce waste.
• Build relationships with clients, suppliers and stakeholders.
• Drive innovation in service delivery and operational processes.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback to the team.
• Represent the company at client meetings and industry events as required.

Skills

Executive leadership

Budget management

P&L analysis

Food safety

Communication

Education

Hospitality Management degree

Tools

Catering software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering and hospitality group with a strong presence in Sandton, Gauteng , is seeking a seasoned Senior Catering Operations Manager . This leadership role demands a strategic thinker with extensive experience in managing large-scale catering operations, ensuring profitability, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and service. You will oversee daily operations, manage a diverse team, control budgets, and drive operational efficiency. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership qualities, a deep understanding of the catering industry, and a commitment to excellence. This is a prime opportunity to lead and innovate within a dynamic and fast-growing organization in the heart of Gauteng 's business hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of catering operations, including event execution, staffing, inventory, and quality control.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency, profitability, and client satisfaction.
• Manage operational budgets, monitor financial performance, and implement cost-control measures.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of catering professionals, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, hygiene, and liquor licensing regulations.
• Oversee procurement and inventory management to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Drive innovation in service delivery and operational processes.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Represent the company at client meetings and industry events as required.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in catering operations management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale catering operations and achieving financial targets.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Strong financial acumen, including budget management, P&L analysis, and cost control.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, health, and hygiene standards.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in catering management software and MS Office Suite.
• A degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is highly preferred.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as event demands require in Sandton .
• A strategic mindset and a commitment to delivering exceptional operational excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive salary package, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for career advancement. You will be joining a respected leader in the catering industry, working on prestigious events and contributing to the company's ongoing success in Sandton, Gauteng . Take this opportunity to shape the future of catering operations.