Executive Chef - Catering Services

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Executive Chef to lead the catering division in Johannesburg. You will oversee all culinary operations, from menu development and food preparation to team management and quality control, ensuring exceptional dining experiences for a diverse clientele.

Drive innovation, maintain high food-safety standards, and collaborate with event planners to deliver bespoke culinary experiences for private and corporate functions in a dynamic, event-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Proven executive chef experience in high-volume catering.
• Formal culinary qualifications.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Knowledge of global cuisines and dietary practices.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and diverse menus for various events and client preferences.
• Lead and mentor the culinary team, ensuring high performance and collaboration.
• Oversee all food preparation, ensuring quality, consistency, and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Menu development

Food safety & hygiene

Budgeting & cost control

Supplier negotiation

Communication

Education

Culinary qualifications

Job description

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and creative Executive Chef to lead their prestigious catering division in Johannesburg. This pivotal role involves overseeing all culinary operations, from menu development and food preparation to team management and quality control, ensuring exceptional dining experiences for a diverse clientele. You will be instrumental in shaping the culinary identity of the brand, driving innovation, and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and presentation, contributing significantly to client satisfaction and business growth in a dynamic, event-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and diverse menus tailored to various event types, client preferences, and seasonal availability.
• Manage and mentor the culinary team, including sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Oversee all food preparation, ensuring consistency, quality, and adherence to culinary best practices and safety standards.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to secure high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
• Collaborate with event planners and clients to conceptualize and execute bespoke culinary experiences for private and corporate functions.
• Ensure impeccable presentation of all dishes and maintain the cleanliness and organization of all kitchen facilities.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a high-volume catering or hospitality setting.
• Formal culinary qualifications or equivalent demonstrable expertise.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Extensive knowledge of global cuisines, dietary restrictions, and modern gastronomic techniques.
• Proficiency in food cost management, inventory control, and supplier negotiation.
• Excellent understanding of food hygiene, health, and safety regulations.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to lead and innovate within a renowned catering company.
• Exposure to a wide range of high-profile events and clients.
• Professional development opportunities and ongoing training.
• A dynamic and supportive kitchen environment in Johannesburg.