Banqueting & Events Chef

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Banqueting & Events Chef in Sandton, Gauteng, to oversee culinary execution for banquets and high-profile events. You will lead a dedicated kitchen team, craft innovative menus, and collaborate with event planners to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years of culinary experience, with 3+ years in senior banqueting roles, and a strong track record in food cost control, safety, and team leadership.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of progressive culinary experience with 3+ years in a senior banqueting/high-volume events role.
• Proven skills in menu development, food costing, and inventory management for events.
• Strong leadership, team motivation, and communication abilities.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in all banquet and event food services.
• Develop innovative, client-focused menus for diverse events and dietary needs.
• Ensure consistent high quality of food production, presentation, and taste across events.
• Manage kitchen operations, including staff scheduling, training and performance reviews.
• Maintain HACCP compliance and uphold strict hygiene standards.
• Control food costs through inventory management and portion control.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Inventory management

Food safety HACCP

Team management

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious events and catering company located in the heart of Sandton, Gauteng , is seeking a highly skilled and creative Banqueting & Events Chef. This dynamic role is responsible for overseeing the culinary execution of all banquets and special events, ensuring exceptional quality, presentation, and guest satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of fine dining techniques, extensive experience in large-scale event catering, and a passion for culinary innovation. You will lead a dedicated kitchen team, develop inspiring menus, and collaborate closely with event planners to bring client visions to life. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your culinary talents at high-profile events in one of Johannesburg's most sophisticated districts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in the preparation and execution of all banquet and event food services.
• Develop innovative and appealing menus for a variety of events, considering client preferences, dietary needs, and current culinary trends.
• Ensure consistent high quality of food production, presentation, and taste across all events.
• Manage kitchen operations efficiently, including staff scheduling, training, and performance management.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards (HACCP).
• Control food costs through effective inventory management, portion control, and waste minimization.
• Collaborate with event managers and planners to ensure seamless coordination between the kitchen and front-of-house operations.
• Source high-quality ingredients from approved suppliers, ensuring freshness and value.
• Manage kitchen equipment and maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
• Contribute to menu tastings and client presentations as required.

Requirements

• A minimum of 6 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a senior role focused on banqueting or high-volume event catering.
• Proven expertise in menu development, food costing, and inventory management for events.
• Strong leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Proficiency in managing kitchen operations under pressure and meeting tight deadlines.
• Creative flair and a passion for culinary excellence and presentation.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective team and client interaction.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, high-volume event environment in or around Sandton.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with skills and experience, along with comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits. This is a stable, full-time position offering significant opportunities for career growth within a leading event catering company. You will have the chance to work on prestigious events and lead a talented culinary team in the upscale Gauteng area. Continuous professional development and training will be provided. Enjoy a challenging and rewarding environment where culinary artistry is celebrated. Paid annual leave is standard.