Executive Chef & Catering Director for Premier Events

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Professional development

Bonuses based on performance

Creative, dynamic work environment

Work with high-profile clients

Supportive management team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef & Catering Manager in Johannesburg to lead culinary operations for high-profile events, from intimate gatherings to large corporate functions. You will shape menus, manage a kitchen team, and partner with events and sales to deliver exceptional dining experiences while controlling costs and maintaining the highest standards.

This role blends hands-on cooking with strategic leadership in a vibrant Gauteng catering scene.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of progressive experience in high-end catering or fine dining.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proven menu creation, costing, and large-scale event execution.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize innovative menus for diverse events.
• Oversee kitchen operations, food prep, plating and quality control.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation and cost control.
• Lead and mentor chefs and kitchen staff.
• Maintain hygiene and safety standards (HACCP).
• Collaborate with sales/events teams to tailor offerings.
• Control food and labor costs to meet budgets.
• Coordinate taste panels and menu tastings.
• Stay current with culinary trends and techniques.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food cost control

HACCP

Mentoring staff

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef & Catering Manager in Johannesburg to lead culinary operations for high-profile events, from intimate gatherings to large corporate functions. You will shape menus, manage a kitchen team, and partner with events and sales to deliver exceptional dining experiences while controlling costs and maintaining the highest standards.

This role blends hands-on cooking with strategic leadership in a vibrant Gauteng catering scene.