Senior Event Catering Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Training opportunities

Collaborative team environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking an Event Catering Manager to oversee all catering for events, from client consultation and menu planning to on-the-day execution. You will lead a team, maintain client relationships, and ensure service excellence across the Free State region.

The ideal candidate has a passion for food and exceptional service, with strong logistics and management skills. Flexible hours and weekend/holiday availability may be required to meet event schedules.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in event management, catering, or hospitality with a client-relations focus.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and execution of all catered events to ensure client satisfaction.
• Be the main client contact from inquiry to post-event follow-up.
• Develop customized menus and proposals with clients and culinary team.
• Manage event logistics including staffing, equipment, venue coordination and timelines.
• Monitor budgets to ensure profitability and cost-effectiveness for each event.
• Train and supervise event staff to deliver professional service.
• Conduct site visits and tastings as required.
• Maintain relationships with vendors, suppliers and venues.
• Ensure health, safety and sanitation standards are met during events.
• Troubleshoot issues to ensure smooth operation.

Skills

Event management

Client relations

Budgeting

Staff supervision

Negotiation

Communication

Organization

Event planning software

Tools

Event management software

Job description

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking an Event Catering Manager to oversee all catering for events, from client consultation and menu planning to on-the-day execution. You will lead a team, maintain client relationships, and ensure service excellence across the Free State region.

The ideal candidate has a passion for food and exceptional service, with strong logistics and management skills. Flexible hours and weekend/holiday availability may be required to meet event schedules.