Hospitality Host

The main purpose: The role is responsible for assisting the Assistant Event Services Managers to effectively plan and execute food and beverage services required as per the assigned event. The role oversees the coordination of Section Leaders, Service Staff, and Waitrons to render excellent service to all the internal or external customers. Uphold set standards within the department with the overall purpose to execute a seamless event.

Reporting to the: Assistant Event Services Manager – Banqueting

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

1) Management of all events and services

• Manage event setups as per the function schedule, company guidelines, and required standards.

• Ensure that the safety and cleanliness standards are maintained by both the clients and staff

• Conduct and record spot checks during events to ensure that staff are operating according to set Standard Operating Procedures.

• Ensure that all equipment – including but not limited to drinks machines and point-of-sale equipment – is used correctly and that maintenance issues are reported and dealt with.

• Acquire full briefing and handover from the Assistant Event Services Manager before the event and communicate to staff.

• Maintain customer satisfaction and take appropriate action on customer complaints.

• Ensure all charges are written up, processed and signed off by the client, as well as voids and cancellations.

• Ensure that all payments (cash, credit card, mobile) are handled correctly according to the Standard Operating Procedures.

• Communicate with catering and other staff to ensure that necessary prep-work is done in advance.

2) Create an organised service area through planning and organising at all times.

• Ensure that you have enough food and wine knowledge to be able to anticipate the clients / guests needs and exceed their individual expectations through valued customer service.

• Get a full briefing from your Assistant Event Services Manager of the events taking place in our building.

• Ensure the venues are correctly setup as per function sheets.

• Perform walkabouts of the venues and floors ensuring all set ups are in order.

• Ensure that the staff practise the “clean as you go” slogan during work at all times.

• Ensure that the staff use all the equipment with the utmost care to avoid accidents and losses.

• Pass the necessary information in your handovers within department.

• Teamwork – As a team player your communication level with each other should be flawless thus allowing you to take control of things more successfully.

• Give the necessary information to the set-up staff in the evening to make mis-en-place for the next morning so that setup teams can set venues quickly and efficiently for the early morning shift this is imperative that is checked before you leave the building.

3) Inventory Management

• Manage the operating equipment used within your event and ensure all bar smalls are accounted for.

• Ensure that all stock is safe guarded from loss through by conduction stock variance checks for all events and reporting to the Event Services Manager.

• Ensure correct stock is ordered and par levels are always maintained for your event.

• Ensure that breakages and losses of equipment are monitored, and action taken when abuse is identified.

• Ensure par levels of glassware and bar smalls are maintained for your event.

4) Staff Management

• Ensure that staffing levels are correct and to agreed standards and as per the event requirement.

• Performance reviews to be done quarterly with Section Leaders and Waitrons.

• Manage workplace diversity.

• Act in case of staff discipline and resolve any staff issues.

• Conduct on-the-job training and assessment daily.

• Ensure daily handovers and briefings meetings are taking place with all the staff.

• Ensure debriefs are conducted with staff after each event.

Event Executive

The main purpose: The purpose of this position is to ensure the coordination and administration relative to all types of events hosted at the CTICC thus ensuring the successful build up/compilation and execution of events. The Event Executive must ensure that clients have exceptional experiences through effective client management.

Reporting to the: Events Manager

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

1. Coordinate and Procure services for all Events

• Client relationship management.

• Determining the exact needs of the client and advising on certain possibilities and options.

• Advising and discussing all services requirements for events namely: venue settings, décor, Audio Visual, ICT solution, entertainment, food & beverage requirements, security & safety; statutory regulations and any other additional requirements relating to the event.

• Upsell all services for events.

• Generate requisitions and hand over to Finance to follow up on client payment deadlines.

• Liaising with the relevant internal departments/divisions regarding additional special needs as requested by the client.

• Arrange pre-conference meetings with client and all internal stakeholders as well as service providers.

• Client relationship management.

• Liaising and promoting CTICC in-house service providers.

• Ensuring client satisfaction with the event planning process

• Arrange client feedback meetings for a de-brief after the event to ensure client relationship management.

• Securing client feedback and responding appropriately and timeously on the actual experience at the CTICC.

• Ensure to achieve required client satisfaction score for the division.

• Co-ordinate and attend site inspections and menu tasting with clients.

• Follow through to successful execution of event and ensure the account has been completed in terms of financial records.

• Ensure all contractual documents are on file when the account is closed.

• Ensure all events are closed and accounted for as per the company policy and procedures.

• Identify areas of improvement and communicate the opportunities with manager.

2. Finance Management

• Prepare requisitions for expenditure ensuring adherence to company policies and procedures.

• Provide Finance with all supporting documents to prepare an invoice for an event in line with company policies and procedures.

• Ensure the supporting documentation is submitted to Finance within 4 days of event close to secure payment within the required time if additional services were procured by the client.

• Communicate with Finance Department to proactively approach accounts payable.

• Ensure payments are received in line with the pricing policy and client contract.

• Work with the Finance Department to follow up on overdue and outstanding payments to ensure money is received in compliance with policy and client contract.

• Liaise with debtors’ clerk regarding debtors age post events.

Staff Stories

At the CTICC, we value our clients, our environment, and—most importantly—our incredible staff. They are the heartbeat of everything we do. Join us as we celebrate and showcase the people who make it all possible. Discover more about our amazing team here.

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Legacy In Action: Innovative Staff Leading The Way

BONGANI WONDO: A JOURNEY OF GROWTH AND LEADERSHIP

Bongani Wondo’s career at the CTICC spans over 15 years, starting in 2008 when he joined the Operations Department as a parking controller. Since then, he has held the position of parking supervisor and in the 2024 financial year, he was promoted to parking and logistics manager.

His growth reflects both his professional evolution and his deep commitment to the organisation’s success. He has seen the CTICC evolve over the years and has been a key player in our journey. Dedication and hard work have seen him rise steadily through the ranks.

Bongani’s long tenure at the CTICC demonstrates his resilience and commitment to continuous growth. He has demonstrated an ability not only to manage complex operations but to do so while fostering an environment of collaboration and mentorship.

His proactive approach has helped streamline operations within his department, contributing to the overall smooth functioning of the CTICC. He has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and generating additional revenue, such as introducing additional container storage.
But for Bongani, leadership goes beyond logistical improvements – it’s about people. He has always emphasised the importance of mentoring young leaders, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, offering guidance and encouragement to help them unlock their potential.

Reflecting on his promotion, Bongani sees it as a natural progression of his time at the CTICC, one that has been shaped by the support and mentorship he received from colleagues. “I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who guided me, and now it’s my turn to pass that on to the next generation,” he says. He bases his leadership style on collaboration, recognising that the team’s collective efforts determine the success of any department.
In addition to his operational contributions, Bongani has been deeply involved in our corporate social responsibility initiatives, reinforcing his belief in the importance of giving back to the community. These initiatives have not only provided a platform for personal growth but have also helped strengthen our role in uplifting the surrounding community.

“Knowing that I’ve made a positive impact in another person’s life is a blessing on its own,” Bongani said. His goal is to continue building a team that is empowered, collaborative and ready to take on new challenges, ensuring that the department remains a vital part of the CTICC’s operational success for years to come.

“Mentorship has shaped my journey and I’m dedicated to paying it forward by helping young leaders unlock their potential.”
says Bongani.

DIMITRI KOOPMAN: SHAPING CTICC’S CULINARY STANDARDS

Dimitri Koopman has been innovating in our kitchens for 16 years now, starting in 2008 as a demi chef de partie in the Catering division of our Food & Beverage Department. His journey through the ranks, now as senior sous chef, highlights his key role in developing the centre’s food and beverage offerings. Dimitri’s dedication was recently recognised with a long service award for 15 years of dedication at the CTICC.

To celebrate his 16th year with us, Dimitri attended the IKA Culinary Olympics in Stuttgart, Germany in February 2024, where he served as a taster. This event takes place every four years and is an excellent platform for chefs to exchange ideas and learn from one another in a collaborative environment.

This year’s event exposed him to new techniques and global culinary trends, providing valuable insights he could bring back to the CTICC. Reflecting on the experience, Dimitri noted: “Being surrounded by chefs from different countries opened my eyes to subtle differences in techniques and gave me ideas we can use in our own kitchens.”
Since returning, Dimitri has started implementing some of these ideas, particularly in the plated functions that are central to the CTICC’s hospitality services. His exposure to international practices has strengthened the CTICC’s ability to remain competitive in a fast-evolving industry.

Dimitri is also deeply committed to mentorship within the CTICC kitchens, having received training from different executive chefs himself and is now actively supporting many younger chefs who have progressed into leadership roles. “Mentoring younger chefs has been one of the most rewarding parts of my job. Seeing them succeed, and sometimes surpass me, is the best kind of achievement,” he said.

A significant milestone in Dimitri’s career was his involvement in planning the menu for our second building, CTICC 2. He credits the training and support he received from senior chefs for helping him manage kitchen operations smoothly under pressure.

“Understanding the business side of the kitchen is as important as the food itself and that’s something I’ve learnt through experience here,” he explained.
Dimitri has also contributed to the CTICC’s CSR initiatives, most notably by training students from disadvantaged communities.

Seeing these students advance in their careers is something Dimitri considers one of his proudest achievements. “Helping these young chefs support themselves and their families is incredibly fulfilling,” he reflects.

Looking ahead, Dimitri hopes that the ideas he has implemented and the people he has mentored will form part of his lasting contribution to the CTICC. “It would be great to see some of the dishes I helped create still being served in years to come,” he adds.

“Being surrounded by chefs from around the world opened my eyes to new ideas we can use in our kitchens,”
Dimitri says.

From Learning To Leadership: Our Commitment To Youth Development

At the CTICC, we have always recognised that our role extends far beyond hosting world-class events. We are deeply committed to creating a lasting impact on our community, particularly through our efforts to nurture and empower young people. This is one of the reasons why we have a Student Placement Programme and Graduate Programme in place.

These two programmes are aligned with our values of passion, integrity, innovation, excellence, gratitude and caring – and serve as a critical component of our job creation and sector support goals.

In our Student Placement Programme, high-performing students enrolled in hospitality-related courses can gain practical experience and the skills needed to complete their course. This six-month placement also makes them more employable in the future.

Our Graduate Programme provides successful graduates with a one-year employment contract. These students come from a variety of backgrounds, reflecting the different departments and services offered by the CTICC. They learn about every aspect of our business during their year with us, giving them a complete overview of the event management process and the hospitality sector as a whole.

In the year under review, there were three graduates contracted. One of our graduates shares her story below.

CAYLEE SINCLAIR: BUILDING A MARKETING LEGACY THROUGH OUR GRADUATE PROGRAMME

Caylee Sinclair joined the CTICC on 1 March 2024 and has found her place on the marketing team, assisting with everything from administering the social media accounts to compiling reports and collaborating with external suppliers.

The CTICC’s structured training programme has exposed Caylee to various aspects of event management and operations, reinforcing a comprehensive understanding of how our departments work together to deliver exceptional events.

Her day-to-day responsibilities have provided hands-on experience in creating content, coordinating with media partners and supporting the team with the development of this very Integrated Annual Report. The practical exposure Caylee has received ensures that graduates like her are well prepared to navigate the fast-paced world of marketing and eventing.

As part of the programme, Caylee has also undergone a range of internal and external training courses, including health and safety, ethics awareness, data protection and media training.
These have equipped her with the essential skills needed to contribute effectively in her role and position her for long-term career growth. “The mentorship and training I’ve received at the CTICC have been instrumental in helping me grow as a professional,” Caylee explains. “I’ve gained valuable insights into both marketing and events, which has given me a strong foundation to build my career.”

The programme also exposes graduates to all aspects of the centre’s operations, ranging from facilities management to event logistics.

Caylee hopes to continue working at the CTICC after the programme ends. During her time in the Marketing Department, she has grown close with the team and looks forward to further developing her skills and joining initiatives that make a difference.

“The mentorship and guidance at the CTICC have shaped me into a more confident professional, ready to take on the challenges of the marketing industry,” says Caylee.

Next Steps Forward: Promotions

These featured staff members have made great progress in their departments and careers. They are already creating legacies for themselves and the CTICC in many ways – either by mentoring others, delivering results, improving processes or building relationships with our clients. We look forward to watching them weave their way in their careers over the coming years.

LIAM SCHEEPERS: CRAFTING A FUTURE IN PROCUREMENT
Buyer – Finance: Supply Chain Management

Liam Scheepers joined the CTICC in April 2022 as a supply chain management (SCM) graduate and was quickly promoted to buyer in the 2024 financial year due to his strong procurement skills. In his new role, Liam has developed a deeper understanding of SCM and the critical role it plays in the success of the organisation.

Liam attributes his promotion to his attention to detail and ability to build and maintain supplier relationships. This role has broadened his decision-making abilities, motivating him to further enhance his skills in procurement and contract management.

On a personal level, this promotion has broadened his perspective, especially in terms of what the future has to offer. “This promotion has motivated me to further develop my skills and knowledge. It has helped me recognise the value of adaptability and continuous improvement,” says Liam.

Mentorship from senior staff members has been pivotal in shaping Liam’s growth. He has learnt the importance of teamwork and strategic communication, skills that have enabled him to thrive in a collaborative environment.

Looking forward, Liam aims to use his experience to support staff joining the CTICC and foster a culture of collaboration. “I would like to be a mentor to new staff joining the CTICC, inspiring them to chase their dreams and make a meaningful impact on the CTICC culture.”
He sees his promotion as a stepping stone toward building a meaningful career, with the goal of leaving a lasting impact on the organisation.

“I have always been motivated by a desire to make a meaningful impact and my promotion has allowed me to do just that – by ensuring resources are used efficiently and strategically. It has also strengthened my ability to collaborate with others, so that we can work towards a common goal,” says Liam.

LEANNE DE LILLIE: ALWAYS CONTRIBUTING CREATIVELY
Communications Officer – Commercial

Leanne De Lillie joined the CTICC in 2016 as a personal assistant to the Chief Commercial Officer, a role that gave her an invaluable inside view of how the business operates. In 2024, she was promoted to communications officer, a shift that has inspired personal and professional growth.

Leanne believes her promotion reflects her desire to step outside her comfort zone and take on new challenges. Over the years, she has developed a diverse skill set, enabling her to make a meaningful impact in her new role. Her journey at the CTICC has been a testament to her belief that hard work and continuous learning are key to success.
“It was the support and belief of the commercial management team that gave me the confidence to try something new. They saw potential in me and motivated me. I work with some amazing and talented individuals who inspire me to do better daily,” says Leanne.

Collaboration has been central to Leanne’s work in the Marketing and Communications Department. She values working closely with colleagues and stakeholders to achieve shared goals. This collective effort has shaped her career, teaching her the importance of teamwork and flexibility.
The CTICC has given her a strong foundation to build her career, but one of her key standouts has been working with her team in collaborative campaigns like CTICC Cares. “Through this initiative, we’ve brought real, tangible relief to people. It’s given me a greater sense of purpose, knowing that our efforts extend beyond the walls of the CTICC,” she says.

Since her promotion, Leanne has focused on finding new ways to contribute creatively. When asked how she would like to leave her mark on the CTICC, she tells us: “I hope to leave a legacy of connection and support. Whether it’s through creative collaborations or simply being someone my colleagues can count on, I want to contribute positively!”

Leanne is excited about the opportunities her role offers and looks forward to further personal and professional development as part of the CTICC’s legacy of success.

“Moving from a support role to where I am now has taught me to keep stepping up, take on more responsibilities, and never stop learning,” Leanne says.

Long-term training stories

In addition to the standard short-term training provided to staff, the CTICC also offered long-term training to 11 permanent staff members, which covered topics such as facilities management, operations management, cost and management accounting, sales management and strategic business management. This equated to 42 months of long-term training in total. Seven male and four female staff were trained. Some of their stories follow below.

Amanda van der Heever: Priceless lessons in cost management
Credit Controller – Finance

Amanda Van Der Heever has been with the CTICC for over ten years now as our star credit controller and recently completed a Cost and Management Accounting course at the University of Cape Town.

This nine-week programme equipped her with a deeper understanding of various costing systems, inventory management and decision-making processes.

Amanda’s training has given her a fresh perspective on the financial side of the business, which she joined in 2013, allowing her to apply her knowledge in areas such as budgeting and cost-volume-profit analysis.

She believes this course has helped position her to take on more responsibilities within the organisation. She is especially interested in the costing side of the business.

Amanda’s goal is to mentor colleagues and contribute to a collaborative work environment. She values the CTICC’s commitment to community and enjoys participating in our various corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, such as Mandela Day and beach clean-ups, which have made a lasting impact on her career and personal development.

When asked what sort of legacy she should like to leave behind, she tells us: “I would like to be remembered as a leader who demonstrated expertise and added value to the organisation. I want to be known for inspiring others and motivating them to strive for excellence.”

“The course has given me insights into costing and budgeting, enhancing my ability to contribute to the financial success of the CTICC,” Amanda says.

Lazola Ndzima: Making an impact through long-term training
General Handyman – Operations: Maintenance

Since joining the CTICC in August 2018, Lazola Ndzima has been actively developing his skills, particularly through a long-term training programme in carpentry, buildings and civil construction. This 15-week course, provided by the Industries Education & Training Institute (IETI), is designed to enhance his practical expertise and align his professional growth with the needs of the CTICC.

Though the programme is still ongoing, Lazola has already completed significant hands-on tasks, such as building roof trusses, hanging doors, constructing staircases and managing stormwater drainage. He believes this training will prepare him for taking on more complex jobs at the CTICC.

Lazola is gaining valuable skills to contribute further to the CTICC’s legacy of excellence. The training also involves a mentorship aspect, which has provided guidance on technical skills and navigating challenges in his personal and professional life. “These types of bursaries and training provide mentorship for us to navigate challenges in family, friendships and our career,” Lazola explains.

This long-term programme has fostered Lazola’s growth in areas beyond technical expertise. Through his training, he has developed key skills in communication, problem solving and planning, which he believes are fundamental to succeeding in his role.

The impact of the programme extends beyond his own personal growth. Lazola plans to pass on the skills he has gained at the CTICC, particularly in areas like tool handling and project execution. “I plan on mentoring others, especially the interns, by sharing what I’ve learnt throughout the programme,” he says.

Looking ahead, Lazola sees this training as an essential step toward achieving his long-term career goals. He envisions leaving a legacy at the CTICC that reflects the journey he has undertaken – from where he started to where he hopes to end up.

“I want to leave a positive impact, showing where I started and where I may end up,” says Lazola.

Sihle Ngubeni: The importance of fostering collaboration for change
Operation Services Executive – Commercial

Sihle Ngubeni joined the CTICC in May 2023 as an operations services executive and in the 2024 financial year, she participated in the Operations Management three-month course at the University of Cape Town.

This three-month programme provided her with valuable theoretical and practical insights into operational processes in order to thrive in today’s complex business landscape. The course instilled the values of proactive problem-solving and teamwork, amongst many other important takeaways. This course formed part of her individual development plan.

The training allowed Sihle to collaborate with peers from various industries across the country, enriching her learning experience through diverse perspectives. Key takeaways from the course included the importance of collaboration, strategic thinking and risk management, all of which have enhanced her ability to contribute effectively in her role.

“I gained insights into aligning operational decisions with organisational goals and the value of planning and foresight. By learning how to effectively mitigate operational risks, I can ensure smoother operations and better respond to challenges,” says Sihle.

Since completing the course, Sihle has applied her new-found skills to improve decision-making and foster greater collaboration within the CTICC. Sihle hopes to make a lasting difference by sharing her knowledge with others. “I intend to collaborate with my colleagues and utilise the skills acquired from my training to support and enhance their abilities in their roles,” she says.

She views the training as a crucial step in building her career and looks forward to making a meaningful difference by contributing to a culture of teamwork and innovation.

“The course has enhanced my ability to analyse and make informed decisions while encouraging collaboration across departments,” Sihle says.

Short-term training stories

We have chosen three short-term training experiences from the year in review, highlighting the ongoing commitment of the CTICC to providing learning opportunities that build opportunity.

Dean Van Reenen: Helping build a safer, smarter future at the CTICC
General Handyman – Operations: Maintenance

Dean Van Reenen joined the CTICC in August 2022 as a member of the Maintenance Department and has since undergone various short-term training programmes, ranging in duration from four weeks to one day, in firefighting, electrical systems, protection of personal information and cybersecurity.

These programmes, organised by the Electrical Contractors Association, equipped him with practical skills to enhance safety, security and operational efficiency at the CTICC.

The training emphasised the importance of privacy, caution and respect in the workplace. Dean has applied these lessons in his role, ensuring that operations are carried out safely and effectively. He is proud of his contribution to maintaining a safe environment for both staff and visitors.

Dean’s vision is to continue upskilling himself and his colleagues, contributing to the CTICC’s future growth. He believes in the importance of collaboration and is committed to supporting the organisation’s mission to create a lasting impact on the community.

“This training has given me the opportunity to contribute to the company’s growth while enhancing safety and collaboration within the workplace,” says Dean.

Lusavela Mbem: Learning about the lasting impact of workplace diversity
Sales Executive – Commercial

A disability awareness and sensitisation training programme provided Lusavela Mbem, our national sales executive, with practical insights into inclusive practices and equipped her with the knowledge to create more accessible environments within the CTICC.

Disability awareness and sensitisation training are pivotal in fostering an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. By understanding and respecting the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, we can build a foundation of empathy, collaboration and mutual respect. This approach not only enhances team dynamics but also leaves a lasting impact, creating a workplace culture that values diversity and supports long-term progress.

Key lessons from the training included understanding the difference between disabilities and handicaps, the importance of employing individuals with disabilities and the various types of disabilities. This training has not only improved Lusavela’s ability to collaborate with colleagues but also reinforced her commitment to making the CTICC more inclusive.

Lusavela’s goal is to leave a legacy of inclusivity and accessibility at the CTICC. She believes this training has positioned her to be a leader in promoting diversity within the organisation and the broader industry.

“I aim to leave a legacy of a more inclusive and accessible CTICC, where diverse needs are seamlessly integrated into all aspects of our operations,” Lusavela says.

Wanga Nomsuka: Leading with responsibility
Demi Chef de Partie – Food & Beverage: Catering

Wanga Nomsuka has played an integral role in ensuring safety at the CTICC since joining in 2018. Equipped with essential first aid and firefighting skills, Wanga has grown into a position of responsibility, supporting the centre’s safety protocols and expanding his expertise in health and safety management.

In the year under review, Wanga completed his first aid and firefighting training over three days at the Medical Education Centre, learning critical techniques, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), treating different degrees of burns and effectively using firefighting tools. These skills have made him a vital asset, enabling him to handle emergencies across the CTICC confidently.

“Being a first aider has helped to a point where I am able to work any shift, night or day, without the medical personnel around the site,” Wanga said.

A significant benefit of Wanga’s role is the opportunity to collaborate with various departments across the CTICC.

“Being a first aider gave me the chance to interact with all the different departments, even teaching the magic behind the scenes in the kitchen,” he says.

This has given him a broader understanding of how the centre functions.

For Wanga, the most important lesson has been the sense of leadership he has developed through his training. This leadership is central to his role, as he ensures the safety of colleagues and visitors, reinforcing the CTICC’s commitment to a secure and well-managed environment.

Looking forward, Wanga aspires to continue building on his responsibilities, using his skills to leave a legacy of safety and leadership within the CTICC. He is committed to ensuring that the values and knowledge he has gained help shape the future of the centre’s health and safety standards.

“Being a first aider has taught me to take charge and be more responsible, knowing my co-workers are putting their trust in me.” says Wanga.