Senior Event Catering Manager - Whatjobs Direct (Tembisa)

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 500,000 - 800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career advancement opportunities

Training and development programs

Hybrid work model

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct seeks a Senior Event Catering Manager in the Gauteng region to lead and execute high-end catering events. The role blends office planning with on-site management to ensure flawless delivery and client satisfaction.

You will oversee menus, budgeting, staffing, vendor coordination, and post-event analysis while upholding top service standards and safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in event management, specifically catering.
• Proven track record of managing multiple complex events.
• Understanding of food & beverage operations, costing, and menu planning.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal abilities.
• Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings/weekends.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute end-to-end catering events from start to finish.
• Build and maintain client relationships and understand their needs.
• Develop creative menu proposals aligned with budgets and themes.
• Oversee logistics: staffing, vendors, equipment, venues.
• Ensure health, safety and hygiene compliance.
• Manage event budgets and report financial performance.
• Train and supervise catering staff for quality service.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and gather client feedback.
• Collaborate with culinary team to ensure food quality.
• Identify and resolve issues during event execution.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier management

Organizational skills

Client relationship management

Communication

Travel readiness

Tools

Event management software

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is looking for a dedicated and experienced Senior Event Catering Manager to oversee and execute sophisticated catering events in and around Tembisa, Gauteng. This role demands a strategic leader with a keen eye for detail, exceptional organizational skills, and a passion for creating memorable culinary experiences. The successful candidate will manage all logistical aspects of event catering, from initial client consultation and menu planning to on-site execution and post-event analysis. You will be instrumental in ensuring client satisfaction and upholding the high standards of service associated with our client. This position offers a blend of office-based planning and on-site event management.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end planning and execution of all catering events, ensuring seamless delivery from start to finish.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and exceeding their expectations.
• Develop and present creative and customized menu proposals, aligning with client budgets and event themes.
• Oversee event logistics, including staffing, vendor coordination, equipment rentals, and venue liaison.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations throughout all catering operations.
• Manage event budgets, track expenses, and report on financial performance for each event.
• Supervise and train event catering staff, fostering a professional and customer-focused service team.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and client feedback sessions to identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure food quality and presentation meet the highest standards.
• Proactively identify and resolve any issues that may arise during event execution.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in event management, specifically within the catering industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing multiple complex events simultaneously.
• Excellent understanding of food and beverage operations, menu planning, and costing.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Exceptional organizational, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with a flair for client relationship management.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by event schedules.
• Proficiency in event management software and MS Office Suite.
• A passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional customer service.
• Must be able to travel within Tembisa, Gauteng and surrounding areas for site visits and event execution.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives.

This role comes with opportunities for career advancement within the growing hospitality sector.

You will be part of a dynamic team that values innovation and client satisfaction.

The hybrid nature of the role allows for a balance between strategic planning and on-site engagement.

Furthermore, comprehensive training and development programs are available to enhance your skills and career progression within WhatJobs Direct's network.

Join us to make a significant impact on the Tembisa event scene.