Senior Corporate Catering Specialist

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Travel opportunities within the region

Professional development and training

Dynamic team culture

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Senior Corporate Catering Specialist to lead all aspects of corporate catering, from client consultation and menu design to on-site supervision and post-event follow-up. The role requires at least six years in corporate catering, strong organizational and communication skills, and a flair for delivering outstanding service under pressure.

You will coordinate logistics, manage budgets, and collaborate with sales to develop premium catering

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of catering experience with a strong focus on corporate clients.
• Proven experience in menu planning, event coordination, and on-site event management.
• Excellent understanding of corporate event dynamics and client service expectations.

Responsibilities

• Liaise with corporate clients to understand needs, preferences and budget constraints.
• Develop customized menus and proposals for corporate events.
• Coordinate all logistical aspects of catering, including staffing, equipment, transport and setup.
• Oversee food preparation and presentation to ensure high quality and aesthetics.
• Manage on-site catering operations during events and resolve issues promptly.
• Maintain relationships with clients to secure repeat business and referrals.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate with sales/marketing to develop new catering packages and promotions.
• Manage inventory and control costs to meet event financial targets.
• Gather client feedback post-event for continuous improvement.

Skills

Corporate catering

Menu planning

Event coordination

Client service

Budget management

Negotiation

Microsoft Office

Event management software

Tools

Event management software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of corporate event services, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Corporate Catering Specialist to join their vibrant team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is critical in ensuring the flawless execution of catering services for a diverse portfolio of corporate clients. You will be responsible for managing all aspects of corporate catering, from initial client consultation and menu planning to on-site supervision and post-event follow-up. The ideal candidate possesses a keen understanding of corporate etiquette, dietary requirements, and the nuances of delivering high-quality food and beverage services in a professional setting. This position requires exceptional organizational skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to exceeding client expectations. The vibrant business landscape of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal provides an exciting backdrop for this demanding role.

Key Responsibilities

• Liaise directly with corporate clients to understand their specific catering needs, preferences, and budget constraints.
• Develop customized menus and proposals tailored to corporate events, ensuring a balance of innovation and client requirements.
• Coordinate all logistical aspects of catering, including staffing, equipment, transportation, and setup.
• Oversee food preparation and presentation to ensure the highest standards of quality and aesthetic appeal.
• Manage on-site catering operations during events, ensuring smooth service delivery and prompt resolution of any issues.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, aiming for repeat business and positive referrals.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the catering operations.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to develop new corporate catering packages and promotions.
• Manage inventory and control costs effectively to meet financial targets for assigned events.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and gather client feedback for continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in catering, with a strong focus on corporate clients.
• Proven experience in menu planning, event coordination, and on-site event management.
• Excellent understanding of corporate event dynamics and client service expectations.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Effective communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by event schedules.
• Knowledge of food and beverage trends, particularly within the corporate sector.
• Proficiency in event management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• A proactive problem-solver with a calm demeanor under pressure.
• Culinary background or formal hospitality training is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary reflecting experience and responsibilities.
• Opportunity to manage high-profile corporate events.
• Dynamic work environment with a focus on client satisfaction.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Potential for career advancement within the company.
• Travel opportunities within the region for client meetings and site visits.
• A supportive team culture dedicated to excellence.
• Involvement in creating memorable experiences for leading businesses.