Head Catering Chef - Upington Events

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 54,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Modern kitchen facilities

Staff meals

Professional growth

Key role in Upington catering scene

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Head Catering Chef for our client in Upington, Northern Cape. The role oversees all culinary operations, including menu development, food preparation, and kitchen management, with frequent travel to event sites.

The ideal candidate brings 5–7 years of culinary experience, including leadership at head chef level, and a strong background in menu costing, staff supervision, and food safety standards like HACCP.

Qualifications

• Progressive culinary experience, 5–7 years, including 2–3 years in head chef roles.
• Certified in HACCP or food safety standards.
• Proven ability to develop innovative menus for high-volume events.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations, including menu planning, food prep, and presentation.
• Develop innovative menus reflecting trends and seasonal ingredients for Upington events.
• Oversee training, scheduling, and performance of kitchen staff.
• Ensure adherence to food safety and sanitation standards.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and cost control for profitability.
• Collaborate with event planning to meet culinary requirements.
• Maintain equipment and a clean, organized kitchen.
• Conduct regular quality control on all dishes.
• Respond to issues in kitchen or event sites.
• Foster a positive, collaborative kitchen environment.

Skills

Leadership

Menu Development

Food Safety (HACCP)

Team Management

Cost Control

Education

Culinary Degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event catering service renowned for its exceptional quality and diverse offerings in the Upington, Northern Cape region, is seeking an experienced and creative Head Catering Chef. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing all culinary operations, from menu development and food preparation to kitchen management and staff supervision. The ideal candidate will have a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences, a strong understanding of food safety and hygiene, and the ability to lead and inspire a kitchen team. You will be instrumental in shaping the culinary direction of the company, developing innovative menus that cater to a wide range of events, including corporate functions, weddings, and private parties throughout the Northern Cape . This role requires a hands‑on approach, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple culinary projects simultaneously. The position is based at our client's central kitchen facility in Upington , with frequent travel to event sites. We are committed to culinary excellence and are looking for a passionate professional to drive our kitchen operations forward.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the kitchen, including menu planning, food preparation, and presentation.


• Develop innovative and appealing menus that reflect current culinary trends and seasonal ingredients, catering to diverse client needs and events in Upington .


• Oversee the training, scheduling, and performance management of kitchen staff.


• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.


• Manage inventory, procurement, and cost control for food and supplies to maintain profitability.


• Collaborate with the event planning team to ensure culinary requirements are met for all events.


• Maintain equipment and ensure a clean and organized kitchen environment.


• Conduct regular quality control checks on all dishes prepared.


• Respond effectively to any issues that arise in the kitchen or at event sites.


• Foster a positive and collaborative working environment for the kitchen team.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 2-3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role, preferably in catering or high-volume hospitality in the Northern Cape .


• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification from a recognized institution.


• Proven expertise in menu development, costing, and kitchen management.


• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP).


• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.


• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple events simultaneously.


• Creative flair and a passion for culinary excellence and presentation.


• Experience with event catering logistics is highly desirable.


• Proficiency in inventory management and cost control techniques.


• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, essential for event catering in Upington .


• Valid driver's license and own reliable transport.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.


• Opportunity to lead a talented culinary team in a dynamic catering environment.


• Creative freedom in menu design and culinary innovation.


• Access to modern kitchen facilities and equipment.


• Potential for professional growth and development.


• Staff meals and discounts on company services.


• A chance to be a key player in the growing event scene in Upington and the surrounding Northern Cape .