Senior Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks a Senior Catering Operations Manager to lead a growing catering division. This strategic role requires deep experience in large-scale operations, financial oversight, and high-level leadership across multiple venues and events.

You will optimize operations, drive profitability, ensure health and safety compliance, and build a high-performance team while maintaining strong client and vendor relationships in the Stellenbosch area.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years in catering operations management with senior leadership experience.
• Proven ability to manage large budgets and P&L responsibility.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and motivational skills.
• Excellent strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and operational best practices.
• Experience in contract negotiation and client relationship management in Stellenbosch area.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of catering operations, including logistics, staffing, procurement, and quality control.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase profitability.
• Manage budgets, financial reporting, and P&L for the catering division.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of catering professionals.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key clients, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, food hygiene, and regulatory standards.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Budgeting & P&L

Team leadership

Food safety knowledge

Client relationship management

Contract negotiation

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a highly experienced and strategic Senior Catering Operations Manager to lead their expanding catering division based out of Stellenbosch . This leadership role demands a comprehensive understanding of large-scale catering operations, financial management, and team leadership. You will be responsible for optimizing operational efficiency, driving profitability, and ensuring the consistent delivery of exceptional catering services across multiple venues and events. The successful candidate will possess exceptional business acumen and a proven track record in managing complex catering projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of catering operations, including logistics, staffing, procurement, and quality control.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase profitability.
• Manage budgets, financial reporting, and P&L for the catering division.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of catering professionals.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key clients, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, food hygiene, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in catering operations management , with a significant portion in a senior leadership role.
• Proven ability to manage large budgets and P&L responsibility.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and motivational skills.
• Excellent strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and operational best practices.
• Experience in contract negotiation and client relationship management in the Stellenbosch area and beyond.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package including base salary and significant bonus potential.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
• Generous paid time off and leave policies.
• Significant autonomy and influence over strategic direction.
• Company vehicle and allowances for business expenses.