Culinary Event Specialist

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-based incentives

Health benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Culinary Event Specialist for a premier event management and catering company based in Welkom, Free State. This role blends culinary artistry with event coordination to design and execute high-quality catering experiences for diverse clients.

Ideal candidates bring 4+ years in culinary arts, strong organizational skills, and expertise in menu development. Flexibility for evenings, weekends, and holidays is required to deliver flawless on-site execution.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of experience in culinary arts, menu development, and event catering.
• Strong project management and multi-event coordination skills.
• Familiar with HACCP and food safety regulations.
• Excellent communication and client relationship skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop creative, customized menus based on client requirements and themes.
• Oversee culinary aspects from menu costing to ingredient sourcing.
• Coordinate kitchen operations to ensure timely food production.
• Manage catering logistics, setup, staffing, and service flow.
• Liaise with clients to align vision and expectations.
• Site visits and pre-event planning.
• Adhere to food safety and hygiene standards.
• Supervise on-site catering staff during events.
• Collaborate with planners and vendors for cohesive events.

Skills

Menu development

Event coordination

Client relationship management

Creativity

Education

Culinary degree or certification

Tools

Microsoft Office

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event management and catering company based in Welkom, Free State, is seeking a passionate and experienced Culinary Event Specialist. This role is ideal for an individual with a strong background in both culinary arts and event coordination. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and executing high-quality catering experiences for a diverse range of clients and events. This includes developing unique menus, managing food preparation logistics, and ensuring flawless on-site execution. The successful candidate will be creative, organized, and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and memorable culinary moments in the Free State.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop creative and customized menus based on client requirements, event themes, and current culinary trends.
• Oversee the entire culinary aspect of events, from menu planning and costing to ingredient sourcing and preparation.
• Coordinate with the kitchen team to ensure timely and efficient food production, maintaining the highest quality standards.
• Manage event logistics related to catering, including setup, equipment, staffing, and service flow.
• Liaise with clients throughout the planning process to ensure their vision is met and exceeded.
• Conduct site visits and pre-event assessments to plan for specific venue needs.
• Ensure all food safety and hygiene regulations are strictly adhered to.
• Manage catering budgets and control food costs effectively.
• Supervise on-site catering staff during events to ensure professional and efficient service.
• Collaborate with other event planners and vendors to ensure cohesive event execution.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in culinary arts, menu development, and event catering.
• Proven ability to manage multiple events simultaneously, with exceptional organizational skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client relationship management skills.
• Culinary degree or relevant certification is preferred.
• Creativity and a passion for food and innovative presentation.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as event demands require in Welkom.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with event management software.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• A valid driver's license and own transport would be advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive health benefits.
• You will have opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic and creative industry.
• Join us to shape unforgettable culinary experiences in Welkom, Free State.