Culinary Director - Catering Operations

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks an innovative Culinary Director to spearhead our catering operations. This senior leadership role covers culinary vision, menu development, quality control and efficient operations for high-volume catering.

The ideal candidate will lead with strategic thinking and a passion for exceptional dining experiences. The role requires extensive senior-level culinary leadership, strong budgeting skills, and the ability to drive profitability while

Qualifications

• 10+ years of culinary experience with 5+ years in a senior leadership role in catering.
• Formal culinary training or a degree in Culinary Arts.
• Proven expertise in menu engineering, cost analysis and financial management.
• Strong leadership, mentoring and staff development abilities.
• Knowledge of HACCP and local health codes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in Durban, maintaining high standards of food quality and presentation.
• Develop and update diverse menus for events and client preferences.
• Oversee procurement, inventory and cost control to ensure profitability.
• Implement food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Collaborate with event planners and sales to create bespoke catering solutions.
• Manage kitchen operations including staffing, scheduling and training.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Menu engineering

Cost analysis

Food safety

Team mentorship

Communication

Education

Culinary degree

Tools

Inventory management software

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is seeking an innovative and experienced Culinary Director to spearhead our catering operations in Durban. This senior leadership role is responsible for the overall culinary vision, menu development, quality control, and operational efficiency of our catering division. You will be the driving force behind creating exceptional dining experiences that delight our clients and guests. The ideal candidate will have a profound understanding of diverse cuisines, a flair for creative presentation, and a proven ability to manage large-scale catering logistics and budgets. This position demands strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of food preparation and service in KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in Durban, setting high standards for food quality, taste, and presentation.
• Develop and continuously update diverse menus that cater to a wide range of events and client preferences, incorporating local and international flavors.
• Oversee all aspects of food procurement, inventory management, and cost control to ensure profitability.
• Implement and enforce rigorous food safety and sanitation protocols, meeting all regulatory requirements.
• Manage kitchen operations, including staffing, scheduling, training, and performance evaluation of culinary staff.
• Collaborate with event planners and sales teams to create bespoke catering solutions and proposals.
• Innovate and introduce new culinary techniques and trends to enhance the company's offerings.
• Ensure efficient food preparation and delivery for all events, maintaining quality and timeliness.
• Conduct taste tests and quality assurance checks regularly.
• Manage relationships with food suppliers, negotiating favorable terms and ensuring consistent quality.

Requirements

• Extensive culinary experience (10+ years) with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within the catering or hospitality industry in KwaZulu-Natal.
• Formal culinary training or a degree in Culinary Arts or a related field is essential.
• Proven expertise in menu engineering, cost analysis, and financial management within a high-volume catering environment.
• Exceptional leadership and team management skills, with the ability to mentor and develop staff.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations (HACCP, local health codes).
• Creative flair and passion for food, with a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in inventory management systems and standard office software.
• Ability to work demanding hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

We offer a highly competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits plan, including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and generous leave. This role provides an excellent opportunity for career advancement and professional growth within a leading catering organization. You will have the autonomy to shape the culinary direction of our Durban operations and work with a passionate, professional team. Our client is committed to providing a stimulating work environment where innovation is encouraged and contributions are recognized. Access to continuous training and development programs ensures you remain at the forefront of the culinary world. Join us in creating unforgettable culinary experiences across KwaZulu-Natal.