Senior Event Catering Manager (Remote)

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Remote work setup support

Professional development

Collaborative remote culture

Exclusive industry events

Generous annual leave

Opportunity to shape memorable events

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Event Catering Manager to lead remote catering operations for high-profile events across Johannesburg and beyond. You will design menus, oversee sourcing, budgeting, and client relations while guiding a remote team to deliver exceptional service.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in event catering, strong leadership, and proficiency with event management software. This role offers a remote-friendly setup and frequent travel to client sites as required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in progressive event catering management.
• Proven menu development and F&B costing experience.
• Strong leadership and remote team management.
• Strong budget management and P&L responsibility.
• Excellent communication and client relationship skills.
• Proficient with event management software and standard office tools.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel occasionally.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative catering strategies and menus.
• Coordinate sourcing, vendors, and staffing for events.
• Manage budgets, costs, and financial reporting for events.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Lead and mentor the catering team, promoting excellence.
• Ensure food safety, hygiene, and health regulations.
• Coordinate with venues and internal teams for seamless events.
• Troubleshoot issues to ensure client satisfaction.

Skills

Catering management

Menu development

Food & beverage costing

Event execution

Leadership

Budgeting / P&L

Client relationship

Communication skills

Remote team management

Vendor management

Tools

Event management software

Office productivity suites

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in bespoke event experiences, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Event Catering Manager to join their dynamic team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within Johannesburg and surrounding areas, or further afield, while contributing to the success of high-profile events. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing, planning, and executing exceptional catering services for a diverse range of clients, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions and elegant weddings. This role demands a strategic thinker with impeccable attention to detail, a passion for culinary excellence, and the ability to foster strong client relationships. You will oversee all aspects of the catering operation, ensuring seamless delivery and exceeding client expectations. This is an exciting opportunity to leverage your expertise in a challenging and rewarding remote environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative catering strategies and menus in line with current culinary trends and client preferences.
• Manage all logistical aspects of catering operations, including sourcing high-quality ingredients, vendor management, and staffing coordination, ensuring seamless execution from planning to delivery.
• Oversee budget planning, cost control, and financial reporting for all catering events, ensuring profitability and adherence to financial targets.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with clients, understanding their needs and providing exceptional service throughout the event lifecycle.
• Lead, train, and mentor a team of catering staff, fostering a culture of excellence, professionalism, and teamwork.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and health regulations across all operations.
• Collaborate with internal teams to coordinate event schedules, venue logistics, and client requirements for a unified event experience.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues that may arise during events, ensuring minimal disruption and maintaining client satisfaction.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in event catering management, with a proven track record of successfully managing complex events.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, food and beverage costing, and event execution.
• Exceptional leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide a diverse workforce remotely.
• Strong financial acumen, including budget management and P&L responsibility.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, with a flair for building rapport with clients and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office productivity suites.
• A passion for the culinary arts and a keen eye for detail in presentation and service.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a remote setting.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel occasionally for client meetings or site visits may be required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive remote work setup support, including necessary equipment and potential home office stipend.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in the hospitality and events sector.
• A collaborative and supportive remote work culture that values innovation and employee well-being.
• Access to exclusive events and networking opportunities within the industry.
• Generous annual leave allowance and other standard employee benefits.
• The chance to shape memorable experiences for clients across Johannesburg and beyond.