Senior Event Planner & Catering Coordinator

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health insurance benefits

Professional development and training

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior Event Planner & Catering Coordinator to conceive, plan, and execute premier events, coordinating with clients, vendors, and the in-house culinary team for seamless catering integration.

You will manage proposals, budgets, timelines, on-site oversight, and post-event reconciliations while maintaining exceptional guest experiences in a hybrid work setting across KwaZulu-Natal.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of progressive experience in event planning or management within hospitality.
• Proven track record in planning and executing diverse events of varying scales.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a client-centric approach.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage event concepts, themes, and client experience from inception to completion.
• Create detailed event proposals, budgets, and timelines, ensuring adherence to financial parameters and deadlines.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, guiding them through the planning process with expertise.
• Source, negotiate with, and manage relationships with external vendors, including florists, decorators, entertainment, and rental companies.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef and catering team to design bespoke menus, considering dietary needs and client preferences.
• Oversee the catering setup, service execution, and breakdown to ensure impeccable presentation and guest service.
• Conduct site inspections and venue assessments to ensure suitability and optimal layout for events.
• Manage on-site logistics during events, troubleshoot issues, and ensure a flawless experience.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and financial reconciliations, identifying successes and areas for improvement.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and best practices in event planning and catering.

Skills

Negotiation

Vendor management

Communication

Presentation

Interpersonal skills

Event management software

MS Office Suite

Creativity

Attention to detail

Hybrid work

Tools

Event management software

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished hospitality group renowned for its luxurious event experiences in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is actively seeking a Senior Event Planner & Catering Coordinator. This pivotal role demands a blend of creative vision, exceptional organizational prowess, and a deep understanding of catering logistics. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and flawlessly executing a wide array of high-profile events, from intimate corporate functions to grand weddings and galas. A significant portion of your responsibilities will involve coordinating with clients, vendors, and the in-house culinary team to ensure seamless catering integration and a superior guest experience. This hybrid role allows for strategic planning and remote client engagement, balanced with essential on-site oversight and coordination in Richards Bay. The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with a proven track record in event management and a passion for delivering unforgettable occasions in KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage event concepts, themes, and overall client experience from inception to completion.
• Create detailed event proposals, budgets, and timelines, ensuring adherence to financial parameters and deadlines.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, guiding them through the planning process with expertise and attentiveness.
• Source, negotiate with, and manage relationships with external vendors, including florists, decorators, entertainment, and rental companies.
• Collaborate closely with the Head Chef and catering team to design bespoke menus, considering dietary needs, trends, and client preferences.
• Oversee the catering setup, service execution, and breakdown, ensuring impeccable presentation and seamless guest service.
• Conduct site inspections and venue assessments to ensure suitability and optimal layout for events in Richards Bay.
• Manage on-site logistics during events, troubleshooting any issues that may arise and ensuring a flawless experience.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and financial reconciliations, identifying successes and areas for improvement.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and best practices in event planning and catering in KwaZulu-Natal.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in event planning, event management, or a related role within the hospitality industry.
• Demonstrated success in planning and executing diverse events of varying scales and complexities.
• Exceptional organizational, multitasking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management abilities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with a client-centric approach.
• Proficiency in event management software and MS Office Suite.
• A creative mindset with a keen eye for detail and aesthetics.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and on-site responsibilities in Richards Bay.
• Culinary knowledge or experience in catering coordination is a significant advantage.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules in KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance between remote and on-site work.
• Opportunity to work with a prestigious hospitality brand in Richards Bay.
• Access to cutting-edge event technology and resources.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Health insurance benefits and other standard employment perks.
• Be part of a creative and dynamic team dedicated to delivering exceptional events.