Senior Event Catering Coordinator

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Event-based bonuses

Professional development and training

Supportive catering team

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Senior Event Catering Coordinator for the Port Elizabeth area. You will manage all aspects of event planning, from menu selection to logistics, serving as the primary client contact and ensuring exceptional guest experiences.

The role requires a proactive problem-solving mindset, superb communication, and the ability to coordinate with culinary teams to deliver diverse catering events while maintaining high standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4–6 years of experience in event coordination, catering management, or a similar client-focused role.
• Proven track record of planning and executing catering events successfully.
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Serve as main client contact for planning catering events.
• Develop detailed event proposals with menus, pricing, and logistics.
• Coordinate with culinary team to finalize menus and dietary needs.
• Oversee event logistics including staffing, transport, and venue setup.
• Manage timelines and deadlines; conduct site visits and client consultations.
• Troubleshoot issues during planning or execution; ensure health and safety standards.
• Maintain client records and event documentation; contribute to new packages.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Client-facing

Problem-solving

Tools

Event management software

CRM systems

Job description

About the Role Our client, a highly regarded catering service operating in the Port Elizabeth area, is searching for a seasoned Senior Event Catering Coordinator to manage the seamless execution of diverse catering events. This role requires meticulous planning, exceptional organizational skills, and a strong client-facing ability to ensure every event is a resounding success. You will be the primary point of contact for clients, guiding them through the planning process, from menu selection to final details, and ensuring all logistical requirements are met. The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of catering operations, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a passion for delivering outstanding guest experiences. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to memorable events within the Eastern Cape and to grow within a respected catering organization in Port Elizabeth .

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the main point of contact for clients, managing all aspects of their catering event planning.
• Develop detailed event proposals, including customized menus, pricing, and logistical plans.
• Coordinate with the culinary team to finalize menus and ensure all dietary requirements are accommodated.
• Oversee event logistics, including staffing, equipment, transportation, and venue setup.
• Manage event timelines and ensure all deadlines are met.
• Conduct site visits and client consultations to understand event needs and venue specifics.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues that arise during the planning or execution phases of an event.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and sanitation standards throughout all catering operations.
• Maintain accurate client records and event documentation.
• Contribute to the development of new catering packages and service offerings.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in event coordination, catering management, or a similar client-focused role.
• Proven track record of successfully planning and executing a variety of catering events.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities, with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events simultaneously.
• Proficiency in relevant software, such as event management platforms or CRM systems.
• Knowledge of food and beverage trends and catering best practices.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as dictated by event schedules in Port Elizabeth .
• A proactive and solution-oriented mindset.
• Experience in a customer-facing role is essential.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for event-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to work with a diverse clientele and a variety of prestigious events.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Be part of a supportive and experienced catering team in Port Elizabeth .
• Gain valuable experience in a growing market.