Executive Catering Chef - Wine Estates

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Premium ingredients access

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Catering Chef to lead the catering division for a luxury hospitality group spanning several wine estates in Paarl, Western Cape. The role demands a visionary culinary leader capable of developing and delivering exceptional catering for wine pairings, corporate functions, and private celebrations.

You will oversee operations across estates, mentor chefs, manage budgets, and ensure immaculate hygiene and safety while staying attuned to global trends and local

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in high-end catering and events.
• Proven expertise in fine dining, menu development, and wine pairing.
• Strong leadership and clear communication across multiple kitchen locations.
• Willingness to travel between estates and work flexible hours.

Responsibilities

• Oversee catering operations across multiple wine estates ensuring consistency.
• Develop innovative menus that pair with wine selections and local produce.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire chefs and kitchen staff across sites.
• Control food costs, inventory, and uphold hygiene standards.
• Collaborate with estate managers and winemakers to tailor bespoke experiences.
• Ensure flawless execution of events from small dinners to large functions.
• Maintain luxury branding and drive culinary innovation.
• Provide ongoing culinary training and quality control checks.
• Assist in budgeting and contribute to the division's financial success.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Wine pairing

Budget management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading hospitality group managing several exclusive wine estates, is seeking an accomplished Executive Catering Chef to lead their catering division in the scenic Paarl, Western Cape . This senior role requires a visionary culinary leader responsible for developing and executing exceptional catering services for a wide range of events, including wine pairings, corporate functions, and exclusive private celebrations hosted at these prestigious estates. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of fine dining, a passion for South African produce, and strong leadership capabilities to manage multiple kitchen operations. This is a unique opportunity to influence the culinary direction of iconic wine estates and deliver unparalleled gastronomic experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of catering operations across multiple wine estates, ensuring consistency and excellence.


• Develop innovative and sophisticated menus that complement wine pairings and highlight local produce.


• Manage, mentor, and inspire a team of chefs and kitchen staff across different locations.


• Control food costs, manage inventory, and maintain impeccable standards of hygiene and safety.


• Collaborate with estate managers, event planners, and winemakers to curate bespoke culinary experiences.


• Ensure seamless execution of all catered events, from intimate dinners to large-scale functions.


• Uphold the brand reputation for luxury and quality associated with the wine estates.


• Conduct regular culinary training and quality control checks.


• Manage kitchen budgets and contribute to the financial success of the catering division.


• Stay abreast of global culinary trends and incorporate them creatively into the offerings.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef, with a significant focus on high‑end catering and event management, preferably in a winery or luxury hospitality setting.


• Demonstrated expertise in fine dining cuisine, menu development, and wine pairing.


• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills are essential.


• Proven ability to manage budgets, control costs, and maintain inventory effectively.


• A deep understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations.


• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to the demands of a fast‑paced, high‑profile environment.


• Creative flair and a passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences.


• Relevant culinary qualifications and a strong professional network are highly desirable.


• Willingness to travel between estates and work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required in the Paarl, Western Cape region.

Benefits

This role offers a highly attractive salary package, commensurate with experience, and potential for performance-based bonuses. You will have the unique opportunity to work within the stunning landscape of the Cape Winelands and lead culinary innovation at world‑class wine estates. Our client provides excellent career development prospects and the chance to shape the future of luxury catering. Access to premium ingredients and a collaborative, high‑achieving team environment is guaranteed. Join a prestigious group and leave your culinary signature on unforgettable events in Paarl, Western Cape .