Remote Head of Catering Operations

Our client, a leading national provider of premium catering services, is seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Catering Operations to lead their strategic initiatives. This is a crucial, fully remote position that will drive operational excellence, efficiency, and innovation across all catering divisions. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of catering operations, including supply chain management, quality control, logistics, and team leadership, all managed through advanced remote collaboration platforms.

The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of large-scale catering operations, a proven ability to implement scalable solutions, and exceptional leadership skills. This role requires a strategic thinker who can optimize processes, manage significant budgets, and ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality catering experiences nationwide, while operating from their base in or near Polokwane .

• Develop and implement comprehensive operational strategies to enhance efficiency, quality, and profitability across all catering operations.
• Oversee all aspects of the supply chain, including sourcing, procurement, inventory management, and vendor relationships.
• Establish and maintain rigorous quality control standards for food production, presentation, and service delivery.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a geographically dispersed team of operational managers and staff, fostering a culture of high performance and accountability.
• Drive innovation in operational processes, leveraging technology and best practices to improve service delivery and cost-effectiveness.
• Manage operational budgets, forecast financial needs, and implement cost-control measures to ensure profitability targets are met.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, food hygiene, and regulatory standards across all operational sites.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and culinary teams to align operational capabilities with business objectives and client requirements.
• Develop and implement robust contingency plans to address potential operational disruptions.
• Analyze operational data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify trends, measure success, and drive continuous improvement.

• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in senior operational management within the catering, hospitality, or food service industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale, multi-site catering operations.
• Demonstrated expertise in supply chain management, logistics, and quality assurance.
• Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with experience managing remote teams.
• Strong financial acumen, including extensive experience with budgeting, P&L management, and cost control.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on implementing scalable solutions.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in relevant operational software and advanced remote collaboration tools.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Polokwane region for occasional travel to operational hubs.

• Highly competitive executive-level salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive remote work infrastructure and support.
• Significant opportunity for strategic impact and professional growth.
• Work with a forward-thinking company committed to innovation and excellence.
• Collaborative and dynamic virtual team environment.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and operational best practices.
• Generous benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions.