Senior Event Catering Planner

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible working arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Diverse events exposure

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley, Northern Cape is seeking a highly organized Senior Event Catering Planner to design and execute unforgettable catering experiences for corporate functions, weddings, and private celebrations. You will manage client liaison from concept to on-site delivery, translating visions into delectable menus and seamless logistics.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in event planning or catering, strong menu planning and budgeting skills, and proven ability to lead cross-functional

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event planning or catering coordination.
• Proven ability to manage multiple events with meticulous detail.
• Strong understanding of food & beverage, menu planning, and event logistics.
• Excellent client relationship management and communication skills.
• Proficiency with event management software and tools.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Consult with clients to understand their event requirements, preferences, and budget.
• Develop customized menu proposals and presentation concepts.
• Manage all logistical aspects of catering, including timelines, staffing, equipment, and venue coordination.
• Liaise effectively with culinary teams to ensure menu execution meets client expectations.
• Oversee on-site event execution, ensuring smooth service flow and high standards of presentation.
• Manage catering budgets, track expenses, and ensure profitability for each event.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and suppliers.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and solicit client feedback for continuous improvement.
• Stay abreast of current catering trends, dietary requirements, and event innovations.

Skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Client relationship management

Communication skills

Creative thinking

Problem-solving

Education

Hospitality Management or Event Management qualification

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious events company in Kimberley, is seeking a highly organized and creative Senior Event Catering Planner. This role is instrumental in designing and executing unforgettable catering experiences for a wide range of events, including corporate functions, weddings, and private celebrations. You will work closely with clients from inception to completion, translating their vision into delicious menus and seamless event logistics. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, a passion for food and hospitality, and proven experience in managing complex event projects. This position involves both client-facing interactions and on-site event coordination in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will be the key liaison between clients, chefs, and service staff to ensure every detail is meticulously handled.

Key Responsibilities

• Consult with clients to understand their event requirements, preferences, and budget.
• Develop customized menu proposals and presentation concepts.
• Manage all logistical aspects of catering, including timelines, staffing, equipment, and venue coordination.
• Liaise effectively with culinary teams to ensure menu execution meets client expectations.
• Oversee on-site event execution, ensuring smooth service flow and high standards of presentation.
• Manage catering budgets, track expenses, and ensure profitability for each event.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and suppliers.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and solicit client feedback for continuous improvement.
• Stay abreast of current catering trends, dietary requirements, and event innovations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event planning, catering coordination, or a similar role.
• Proven ability to manage multiple events simultaneously with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong understanding of food and beverage, menu planning, and event logistics.
• Excellent client relationship management and communication skills.
• Proficiency in event management software and tools.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by events.
• A qualification in Hospitality Management, Event Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Kimberley, Northern Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based incentives.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and exciting events in Kimberley.
• Be part of a dynamic and creative events team.
• Professional development opportunities and exposure to the hospitality industry.
• Flexible working arrangements combining office-based and remote tasks.
• Networking opportunities within the events and hospitality sector.