Senior Event Catering Manager

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Leadership role

Professional development

Dynamic work environment

Bonus potential

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, South Africa, seeks a Senior Event Catering Manager to lead culinary operations and ensure flawless exhibition of events from intimate dinners to weddings.

You will shape menus, manage budgets, mentor chefs and staff, and build strong client and vendor relationships while upholding food safety standards.

This role requires 5+ years in senior catering or event management, excellent leadership, and the ability to work flexible hours for events in the Rustenburg area.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in senior catering or event management.
• Proven track record in menu costing and financial management.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Knowledge of food safety and health regulations.
• Proficiency with catering software and MS Office.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred in related fields.

Responsibilities

• Develop catering strategies and menus aligned with trends and client needs.
• Oversee planning, budgeting, staffing, vendor management, and on-site execution.
• Lead chefs, servers, and event coordinators; mentor the team.
• Maintain client relationships and ensure expectations are exceeded.
• Control costs, manage inventory, and ensure health and safety compliance.
• Collaborate with sales/marketing to grow business.
• Ensure flawless presentation of food and service at events in Rustenburg.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Budgeting

Vendor management

Client relations

Operations management

Food safety

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management

Culinary Arts

Tools

Catering management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event management and catering services provider in Rustenburg, North West, ZA, is seeking an accomplished and visionary Senior Event Catering Manager. This is a pivotal role for an individual passionate about delivering exceptional culinary experiences and seamless event execution. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client's catering division, overseeing a diverse portfolio of events ranging from intimate corporate dinners to large-scale banquets and weddings. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the catering industry, exceptional leadership skills, and a proven track record of success in managing complex catering operations. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic team and contribute to the continued growth and reputation of a respected brand in the Rustenburg hospitality scene.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative catering strategies and menus that align with market trends and client expectations.
• Oversee all aspects of event catering operations, including planning, budgeting, staffing, vendor management, and on-site execution.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of catering professionals, including chefs, servers, and event coordinators.
• Manage client relationships, ensuring clear communication, understanding their needs, and exceeding their expectations.
• Control food and beverage costs, implement inventory management systems, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to develop new business opportunities and promotional campaigns.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Ensure immaculate presentation of food and service settings at all events held in Rustenburg, North West, ZA.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior catering management or event management role.
• Proven experience in menu development, costing, and financial management within the catering industry.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety standards and hygiene regulations.
• Proficiency in catering management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• A passion for culinary excellence and exceptional customer service.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Must be adaptable and able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, particularly for events in Rustenburg area.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead and shape the catering division of a well-established company.
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and other incentives.
• Be part of a company that values creativity and excellence in event catering.