Senior Catering Manager

SUMMARY:
Are you the kind of leader who thrives in fast-paced environments, loves people as much as good food, and knows how to bring calm to chaos?
We’re not just looking for a Senior Catering Manager — we’re looking for someone who can lead with heart, manage with precision, and serve with purpose.
This role is central to everything we do — from the hum of a busy kitchen to the quiet details behind the scenes. You’ll manage not only food and coffee but people, systems, and experiences. Think less “clock-in, clock-out” and more ownership, impact, and leadership.

POSITION INFO:

Role: Senior Catering Manager
Location: Hermanus Western Cape
Salary: TBC

What your days might look like:

• Steering a full kitchen and coffee shop operation — no two days are ever the same
• Supporting your team with hands-on guidance and honest leadership
• Balancing the books, stock, and schedules while still making time for a customer conversation
• Coordinating functions that make people feel seen, celebrated, and cared for
• Overseeing customer accounts and ensuring efficient, accurate billing
• Keeping things clean, safe, and always up to standard — from the laundry to the last cup of coffee
• Upholding food safety, hygiene, and quality standards
• Managing suppliers, deliveries, and budget controls with precision

Who you are:

• A seasoned leader with at least 5–8 years’ experience in a similar senior management role — ideally in a hospital, healthcare, or high-volume catering environment
• Strong understanding of kitchen operations, stock control, portioning, waste reduction, and menu costing
• Experience in running a coffee shop, with a focus on customer service, quality control, and daily operations
• Skilled in coordinating functions and events — from planning to execution
• Knowledgeable in special dietary requirements and how to integrate them into menu planning and service
• Proficient in Point-of-Sale systems, stock systems, and general computer literacy (MS Office, email, basic reporting)
• Experienced in HR processes, including payroll, discipline, staff supervision, and performance management
• Familiar with labour legislation and basic Industrial Relations (IR) procedures
• Excellent communicator — fluent in both English and Afrikaans
• Well-organised, solution-oriented, and calm under pressure
• Able and willing to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays
• A natural people-person who builds strong relationships with clients, staff, and suppliers
• Out-of-the-box thinker who thrives in environments where no two days are the same
• Must have a valid driver’s licence and own transport
• A formal qualification in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field will be a strong advantage

Why this role matters: