Executive Catering Chef: Lead Culinary Innovation

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Professional development

Bonuses

Staff meals

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg seeks an Executive Catering Chef to lead culinary operations for high-profile events, weddings and corporate functions. This role requires a visionary leader with a refined palate, exceptional organizational skills, and a proven track record in demanding kitchen environments.

You will collaborate with event planners, clients, and the catering team to create bespoke menus, manage costs, maintain HACCP standards, and mentor staff to deliver masterpieces.

Qualifications

• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• 7–10 years in high-volume catering or fine dining; 3–5 years in Head Chef or Exec Sous.
• Expertise in menu development, cost control and inventory management.
• Strong leadership, communication and client-facing skills.
• Proficiency with HACCP and food safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the catering kitchen operations for events of varying scales.
• Develop and refine creative, seasonal menus with local ingredients.
• Manage inventory, control food costs, and optimize procurement.
• Lead, train, and mentor chefs and kitchen staff to a culture of excellence.
• Ensure HACCP and health/safety compliance across kitchen and event areas.
• Collaborate with sales/events teams to create tailored client proposals and tastings.
• Maintain high standards of food quality and presentation.
• Oversee kitchen equipment maintenance and safe working environment.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Client-facing communication

HACCP knowledge

Cost control

Inventory management

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Job description

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg seeks an Executive Catering Chef to lead culinary operations for high-profile events, weddings and corporate functions. This role requires a visionary leader with a refined palate, exceptional organizational skills, and a proven track record in demanding kitchen environments.

You will collaborate with event planners, clients, and the catering team to create bespoke menus, manage costs, maintain HACCP standards, and mentor staff to deliver masterpieces.