Executive Catering Chef - Corporate Events

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Annual leave

Bonus structure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Catering Chef in Centurion, Gauteng, to lead a culinary team and craft innovative menus for corporate events. This leadership role focuses on menu design, costs, and staff training to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

The ideal candidate has strong culinary roots, proven leadership, and the ability to manage high-volume catering while upholding stringent hygiene standards and client satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive culinary experience with at least 4 years in a Head Chef or Executive Chef role.
• Formally trained via a reputable culinary program or equivalent extensive practical experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, sophisticated presentation, and diverse culinary techniques.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with a proven ability to mentor culinary talent.
• Excellent understanding of food costing, inventory management, and budget control.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP principles, and kitchen hygiene standards.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills for multiple events.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with internal teams and clients.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute creative menus for corporate events, considering dietary restrictions and client preferences.
• Lead, manage, and train the culinary team to ensure high performance and adherence to standards.
• Oversee kitchen operations including food prep, cooking, plating, and presentation for consistency and quality.
• Manage inventory, food costs, and procurement of high-quality ingredients; negotiate with suppliers for cost efficiencies.
• Maintain strict adherence to health, safety, and sanitation regulations in the kitchen.
• Collaborate with event planning and sales teams to ensure seamless coordination of catering services.
• Develop innovative culinary techniques and presentation styles to enhance dining experiences.
• Conduct quality checks and taste panels to ensure top-tier food quality.
• Manage kitchen budgets and contribute to profitability of the catering division.
• Ensure efficient workflow and scheduling within the kitchen to meet event demands.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Cost control

HACCP

Food safety

Budgeting

Inventory management

Staff training

Communication

Education

Culinary degree

Tools

Kitchen management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering firm renowned for its exquisite culinary creations and impeccable service, is seeking an Executive Catering Chef to lead their culinary team in Centurion, Gauteng . This is a leadership role with significant creative and operational responsibilities, focusing on designing, preparing, and presenting innovative menus for a diverse range of corporate events. The ideal candidate will possess a refined palate, exceptional technical culinary skills, and a proven ability to manage a kitchen brigade efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of quality and hygiene. You will play a key role in menu development, cost control, and staff training, ensuring that every dish reflects the company's commitment to culinary excellence. This role requires a visionary leader who can inspire a team and deliver unforgettable dining experiences that exceed client expectations for high-profile events.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute creative and sophisticated menus for corporate events, considering dietary restrictions and client preferences.
• Lead, manage, and train the culinary team, ensuring high performance, skill development, and adherence to standards.
• Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and presentation, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Manage inventory, food costs, and procurement of high-quality ingredients, negotiating with suppliers to achieve cost efficiencies.
• Maintain strict adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations in the kitchen environment.
• Collaborate closely with the event planning and sales teams to ensure seamless coordination and execution of catering services.
• Develop and implement innovative culinary techniques and presentation styles to enhance the dining experience.
• Conduct regular quality checks and taste panels to ensure food quality meets exceptional standards.
• Manage kitchen budgets effectively and contribute to the overall profitability of the catering division.
• Ensure efficient workflow and scheduling within the kitchen to meet event demands.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 4 years in a Head Chef or Executive Chef role, preferably in a high-volume catering or fine dining environment.
• Formal culinary training from a reputable institution or equivalent extensive practical experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, sophisticated presentation, and diverse culinary techniques.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with a proven ability to mentor and develop culinary talent.
• Excellent understanding of food costing, inventory management, and budget control.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP principles, and kitchen hygiene standards.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple events simultaneously.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external clients.
• Must be passionate about food, creative, and possess a meticulous eye for detail.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required for events in Centurion, Gauteng .

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package and a performance-driven bonus structure.
• Employees receive comprehensive health benefits, including medical and dental coverage, and access to a retirement savings plan.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays are provided.
• You will have the chance to work with a talented team and contribute to prestigious events.
• This role provides a unique opportunity for creative expression and professional growth within a leading catering company.