Senior Event Catering Director

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Employee discounts

Cape Town setting

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Senior Event Catering Director to drive strategic catering vision and operational excellence across luxury events. You will lead culinary teams, oversee client engagements, and ensure flawless execution from concept to post-event analysis.

The role requires 7+ years in senior catering management, strong P&L acumen, and a track record of delivering exceptional guest experiences in high-end hospitality.

Qualifications

• 7+ years senior-level catering management in luxury/events.
• Proven P&L, budget development and financial oversight.
• Leadership of large culinary and event teams; strong client relations.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and operational compliance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute catering strategies aligned with brand and market position in Cape Town.
• Lead, manage, and mentor culinary professionals and event staff.
• Oversee all catering operations from client brief to post-event analysis.
• Manage P&L for catering division, ensuring profitability targets are met.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Drive innovation in menus, presentation, and service delivery.
• Ensure strict health and safety standards across operations.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and planning departments to drive growth.
• Direct logistics of large-scale, complex events and post-event reviews.

Skills

Senior leadership

P&L management

Budget planning

Client relationships

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Education

Hospitality/Business degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in premium event services based in the picturesque city of Cape Town, Western Cape , is seeking an accomplished Senior Event Catering Director. This executive position is responsible for spearheading the strategic direction and operational excellence of all catering initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the luxury event market, coupled with a proven ability to manage complex logistics, inspire creative culinary teams, and deliver unparalleled guest experiences. You will be pivotal in maintaining our client's reputation for quality, innovation, and flawless execution across a spectrum of high-profile events. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact in a leading hospitality group.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive catering strategies aligned with the company's brand and market position in Cape Town .
• Lead, manage, and mentor a high-performing team of culinary professionals and event staff.
• Oversee all operational aspects of catering, from initial client consultation and menu design to final execution and post-event analysis.
• Manage P&L for the catering division, ensuring profitability targets are met through effective cost control and revenue generation.
• Build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key clients, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Drive innovation in menu development, presentation, and service delivery, staying ahead of industry trends.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and hygiene standards across all catering operations.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and event planning departments to drive business growth and client satisfaction.
• Direct the logistical planning and execution of large-scale, complex events, ensuring seamless coordination and delivery.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and implement training programs to enhance team capabilities.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of senior-level experience in catering management, preferably within the luxury events or high-end hospitality sector.
• Demonstrated success in P&L management, budget development, and financial oversight.
• Exceptional leadership qualities with a proven ability to manage, train, and motivate large teams.
• Extensive knowledge of culinary trends, food and beverage management, and event logistics.
• Outstanding client relationship management and negotiation skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and operational compliance.
• A degree in Hospitality Management, Business, or a related discipline is highly desirable.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, including weekends and holidays, as required by event schedules in Western Cape .
• Strategic thinker with excellent problem-solving capabilities and a meticulous attention to detail.
• Passion for delivering exceptional quality and service in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary of ZAR , commensurate with experience.
• Potential for annual performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and support for industry certifications.
• Employee discounts on company services and events.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment in the heart of Cape Town .
• Opportunity to work with prestigious clients and high-profile events.