Executive Chef - Banqueting & Outside Catering

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

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary with performancebonu

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Modern kitchen facility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef in Pretoria to lead its banqueting and outside catering division. You will shape culinary strategy, oversee production, and ensure exceptional quality across diverse events.

The role requires a minimum of 10 years in culinary leadership, a formal qualification, and proven cost control and P&L management in high-volume settings. Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years culinary experience with 5+ years in Executive/Head Chef roles in high-volume banqueting or outside catering.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with experience managing large teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all culinary operations for banqueting and outside catering, including menu development and food production.
• Lead, train, and mentor a large team of chefs and kitchen staff.
• Develop innovative menus and manage food costs, procurement, and supplier relations.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and hygiene regulations (HACCP).
• Collaborate with event planners, sales teams and clients to deliver bespoke experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Menu development

Cost control

P&L responsibility

Staff development

Quality assurance

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Tools

Kitchen management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading hospitality and events firm, is seeking a visionary Executive Chef to lead its extensive banqueting and outside catering division in Pretoria. This is a senior leadership position for a culinary expert with a proven ability to manage large-scale operations, innovate menus, and maintain impeccable quality standards across diverse events. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of various cuisines, and the drive to exceed client expectations. You will be responsible for the overall culinary direction, team management, and financial performance of the catering operations. This role offers a significant opportunity to shape the culinary identity of a major player in the Pretoria, Gauteng events scene.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all culinary operations for banqueting and outside catering, including menu development, food production, and quality control.
• Lead, train, and mentor a large team of chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff, fostering a culture of excellence.
• Develop innovative, market-leading menus that cater to diverse client needs, dietary restrictions, and event types.
• Manage food costs, inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships to ensure profitability and quality.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations, maintaining the highest standards of hygiene.
• Collaborate with event planners, sales teams, and clients to design and execute bespoke culinary experiences.
• Manage kitchen budgets, labor costs, and operational expenses efficiently.
• Implement and maintain standardized recipes and cooking procedures to ensure consistency across all events.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new ingredients, and culinary techniques to drive innovation.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and professional development for kitchen staff.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 5 years in a similar Executive Chef or Head Chef role, specifically within high-volume banqueting or outside catering.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing large culinary teams and complex event logistics.
• A strong portfolio of diverse menu creations and a proven ability to adapt to various culinary styles.
• Excellent financial acumen, including budget management, cost control, and P&L responsibility.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• A formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution is essential.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP).
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a demanding environment typical of Pretoria events.
• Proficiency in kitchen management software and standard office applications.

Benefits

• An attractive executive salary with potential for bonuses based on performance.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for significant professional development and industry recognition.
• Access to a modern, well-equipped kitchen facility in Pretoria.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• A challenging and rewarding role with a leading company in the events sector.