Senior Event Catering Manager

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development

Employee discount

Dynamic work environment

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Event Catering Manager to oversee all catering operations in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead chefs, service staff and coordinators, ensuring seamless events from intimate gatherings to large banquets while driving client satisfaction and revenue growth.

The role requires 5+ years in event catering management, strong cost control, and team leadership. Flexibility for evenings and weekends is essential, with travel within the Pietermaritzburg region as

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in event catering management, with at least 2 years in a senior or supervisory role.
• Proven experience in menu planning, event execution, and budget management.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent understanding of food and beverage operations, including costing and inventory control.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and event management software.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Pietermaritzburg region as needed.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on event schedules.
• Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or a related field preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a team in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance catering services and client satisfaction.
• Oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of all catering events, ensuring adherence to budget and timelines.
• Manage and mentor the catering team, including chefs, service staff, and event coordinators, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and suppliers to ensure seamless operations and cost-effectiveness.
• Control inventory, manage food and beverage costs, and implement quality control measures to uphold exceptional standards.
• Develop and present catering proposals, menus, and budgets to potential and existing clients.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the catering operations.
• Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to identify new business opportunities and promote catering services.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to gather feedback and identify areas for enhancement.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new products, and service innovations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Budget management

Menu planning

Event execution

Time management

Multitasking

Organization

People management

Travel willingness

Education

Hospitality/Culinary degree

Tools

MS Office Suite

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier hospitality and events organization, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Event Catering Manager to oversee all catering operations in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is pivotal in ensuring the flawless execution of high-profile events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale banquets. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of culinary trends, exceptional client management skills, and a proven track record in managing a diverse catering team. You will be instrumental in driving revenue growth and maintaining the highest standards of service and product quality. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity for a dedicated professional looking to make a significant impact in the vibrant Pietermaritzburg hospitality scene. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance catering services and client satisfaction.
• Oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of all catering events, ensuring adherence to budget and timelines.
• Manage and mentor the catering team, including chefs, service staff, and event coordinators, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and suppliers to ensure seamless operations and cost-effectiveness.
• Control inventory, manage food and beverage costs, and implement quality control measures to uphold exceptional standards.
• Develop and present catering proposals, menus, and budgets to potential and existing clients.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the catering operations.
• Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to identify new business opportunities and promote catering services.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to gather feedback and identify areas for enhancement.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new products, and service innovations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event catering management, with at least 2 years in a senior or supervisory role.
• Proven experience in menu planning, event execution, and budget management.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent understanding of food and beverage operations, including costing and inventory control.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and event management software.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Pietermaritzburg region as needed.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on event schedules.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills with the ability to multitask.
• A diploma or degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or a related field is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a team in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• In addition to remuneration, employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, opportunities for professional development and training, and a dynamic work environment.
• Employees also enjoy access to exclusive event experiences and a generous employee discount on services.
• We foster a supportive and collaborative workplace culture, recognizing and rewarding outstanding performance.
• Career advancement opportunities within the organization are plentiful for dedicated individuals.
• The role provides the chance to work with a leading brand in the hospitality sector.