Executive Chef & Catering Manager

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

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering and events company based in the vibrant heart of Johannesburg, Gauteng, is seeking an exceptional and experienced Executive Chef & Catering Manager to lead their culinary operations. This is a unique opportunity to shape the gastronomic direction of high-profile events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions. You will be instrumental in delivering unparalleled dining experiences that exceed client expectations, maintaining the highest standards of quality, creativity, and presentation. The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for food, a proven track record in menu development, and exceptional leadership skills to manage a dynamic kitchen team. This role offers a blend of hands-on culinary creation and strategic management, making it perfect for a driven professional looking to make a significant impact in the Johannesburg catering scene. You will work closely with the events team to ensure seamless execution from concept to completion, embodying excellence in every dish served.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and execute innovative menus for a diverse range of events, considering client preferences, dietary restrictions, and seasonal availability.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and quality control, ensuring consistency and excellence.
• Manage inventory, including ordering supplies, stock rotation, and cost control, to optimize profitability without compromising on quality.
• Lead, train, and mentor a team of chefs and kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Maintain impeccable hygiene and safety standards in the kitchen, adhering to all relevant regulations and best practices.
• Collaborate with the sales and events planning teams to understand client needs and tailor culinary offerings accordingly.
• Manage food and labor costs effectively to meet budgetary goals.
• Conduct regular taste panels and menu tastings to ensure the highest quality and presentation.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends and techniques, incorporating them into menu development and kitchen practices.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in a similar role, preferably within high-end catering or fine dining establishments.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proven experience in menu creation, costing, and execution for large-scale events.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent understanding of food safety, hygiene, and sanitation principles (e.g., HACCP).
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency in inventory management and cost control techniques.
• Creative flair and a passion for culinary arts, with a keen eye for detail and presentation.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaunt effectively with clients and internal teams.
• Adaptability and resilience to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment in Johannesburg.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing company.
• A dynamic and creative work environment where your culinary vision can flourish.
• Potential for bonuses based on performance and company profitability.
• Experience working with a diverse range of high-profile clients and events in Johannesburg.
• Comprehensive support from a dedicated and experienced management team.
• Contribution to shaping the culinary identity of prestigious events.