Banquet Chef

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Modern kitchen facilities

Career growth opportunities

Employee recognition programs

Dynamic team environment

Coaching and training

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay is seeking a seasoned Banquet Chef to lead large-scale catering for weddings, conferences and corporate functions at a premier coastal venue. You will oversee menu planning, costing, and execution, manage a banquet kitchen team, control food costs and ensure high standards of hygiene and timely service.

The ideal candidate has proven leadership in high-volume catering, strong organizational skills, and a culinary degree or equivalent experience.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Banquet Chef or similar in high-volume catering.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute menus for banquets and events of various sizes, ensuring high-quality food production.
• Supervise and manage the banquet kitchen staff, including training and performance standards.
• Coordinate with the event planning team to understand client requirements, dietary needs, and service details.
• Maintain control over food costs, inventory and wastage in the banquet kitchen.
• Ensure all food is prepared, stored and served in compliance with hygiene regulations.
• Collaborate on menu development and costing for banquet packages.
• Ensure efficient plating and timely service during events.
• Monitor food quality and presentation to meet client standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Menu planning

Cost control

Food safety

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role Our client, a premier event venue and catering service provider in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is actively seeking a skilled and experienced Banquet Chef. This role is instrumental in delivering exceptional culinary experiences for a wide range of events, including weddings, conferences, and corporate functions held at their beautiful coastal location. As the Banquet Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing the preparation and execution of large-scale catering menus, ensuring quality, consistency, and timely service. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills, meticulous organizational abilities, and a passion for creating delicious, high-quality food for large groups. You will manage a dedicated banquet kitchen team, control food costs, and maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to memorable events in the stunning Mossel Bay region, working with a dynamic team committed to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and execute menus for banquets and events of various sizes, ensuring high-quality food production.
• Supervise and manage the banquet kitchen staff, including assigning tasks, providing training, and ensuring performance standards are met.
• Coordinate with the event planning team to understand client requirements, dietary needs, and service details.
• Maintain strict control over food costs, inventory management, and wastage reduction within the banquet kitchen.
• Ensure all food is prepared, handled, and stored in accordance with food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures for banquet kitchen operations.
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the banquet kitchen, including all equipment and storage areas.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on menu development and costing for banquet packages.
• Ensure efficient plating and timely service of food during events.
• Monitor food quality and presentation, making adjustments as needed to meet client expectations and our client's standards.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Banquet Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or similar role within a high-volume catering or hospitality environment.
• Strong understanding of large-scale food production and banquet service logistics.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in menu planning, costing, and inventory control for banquets.
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events simultaneously.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and hygiene practices (certification preferred).
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Creative ability to adapt menus and prepare diverse cuisine styles.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Residing in or able to commute regularly to Mossel Bay, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting experience and skills.
• Opportunity to work at a premier event venue in a scenic location.
• Potential for career growth within a reputable organization.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
• Access to modern kitchen facilities.
• Employee recognition programs.