Head Catering Chef

Placements24; United States; On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary package

Opportunity to lead culinaryinnovation

Access to quality ingredients

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Catering Chef for a distinguished catering and hospitality group based in Randburg, Gauteng. The role leads kitchen operations, drives menu innovation, and ensures top-quality food for high-volume events across Gauteng.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in catering or fine dining, formal culinary training, and strong leadership with a passion for culinary artistry. Based in Randburg with strong procurement and budgeting skills.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive culinary experience; leadership roles in catering or fine dining.
• Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and mentor the culinary team to foster excellence and teamwork.
• Develop creative, seasonal menus aligned with client needs and trends.
• Maintain highest standards of food preparation, quality, consistency, and presentation.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food safety

Budget management

Education

Formal culinary training or degree

Tools

Inventory management software

POS systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished catering and hospitality group in Randburg, Gauteng , is seeking an accomplished and innovative Head Catering Chef. This senior role requires a culinary maestro to lead our kitchen operations, drive menu innovation, and uphold the highest standards of food quality and presentation for a diverse range of events. You will be responsible for managing the entire culinary team, overseeing procurement, ensuring food safety, and collaborating with event managers to create exceptional dining experiences for our clients across Gauteng . The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in high-volume catering or fine dining, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for culinary artistry. This is a premier opportunity to shape the gastronomic direction of a leading catering service.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and mentor the entire culinary team, fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork.
• Develop creative, innovative, and seasonal menus that align with client needs and current culinary trends.
• Ensure the highest standards of food preparation, quality, consistency, and presentation are maintained.
• Oversee all kitchen operations, including inventory management, food costing, and procurement of ingredients and supplies.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards (HACCP compliant).
• Collaborate with event planners and the sales team to customize menus and cater to specific event requirements.
• Manage kitchen budgets, control food costs, and minimize waste.
• Conduct regular training sessions and performance evaluations for kitchen staff.
• Stay abreast of the latest culinary techniques, ingredients, and industry best practices.
• Ensure efficient workflow and effective communication within the kitchen and with other departments.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Chef role, preferably in catering.
• Formal culinary training or degree from a reputable institution.
• Proven expertise in menu development, food costing, and kitchen management.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
• Ability to perform under pressure in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Creative flair and a passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
• Must be based in or able to commute to Randburg, Gauteng .
• Proficiency in inventory management software and POS systems.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to lead culinary innovation for a prestigious catering group.
• Work in a stimulating environment with access to quality ingredients.
• Significant professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• Be a key figure in the vibrant culinary scene of Randburg, Gauteng .