Executive Chef de Partie - Luxury Event Catering

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Training & development

Prestigious venues

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef de Partie for high-volume events in Midrand, Gauteng. You will oversee a kitchen station, lead a small team, and ensure top-quality food and presentation.

The role demands strong HACCP compliance, cost control, and the ability to adapt to diverse client needs. You will collaborate with Head and Sous Chefs on menus and costing, mentor junior staff, and ensure flawless execution during busy periods at prestigious venues across Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Minimum 5 years in a similar role within catering or fine dining.
• Strong leadership and ability to manage a kitchen team.
• Deep knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and hygiene practices.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct and supervise cooking at your station to ensure quality.
• Manage inventory for your section, including ordering and storage.
• Maintain strict food safety and hygiene standards.
• Collaborate on menu development, costing, and event execution.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff for continuous improvement.
• Control food costs through portioning and waste reduction.
• Ensure timely service during busy events and coordinate with FOH.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully equipped workspace.

Skills

Leadership

Cooking techniques

Food presentation

HACCP knowledge

Inventory control

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering service provider in the vibrant city of Midrand, Gauteng, is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Executive Chef de Partie to join their dynamic culinary team. This is a critical role responsible for overseeing a specific section of the kitchen during high-volume events, ensuring exceptional food quality, presentation, and service standards. This position offers a fantastic opportunity for a talented chef to make a significant impact on the success of exclusive events across the Gauteng region, working with diverse menus and demanding clientele. We are looking for an individual who can lead by example, inspire junior staff, and maintain the highest levels of hygiene and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and supervise the preparation and cooking of menu items within your assigned station, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Manage inventory for your section, including ordering, receiving, and proper storage of ingredients.
• Implement and maintain strict food safety and hygiene standards in accordance with local regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef and Sous Chef on menu development, costing, and execution for various events.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
• Control food costs through efficient portioning, waste reduction, and effective inventory management.
• Ensure timely and efficient service during busy event periods, coordinating with front‑of‑house staff.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully equipped workspace, reporting any maintenance issues promptly.
• Adapt quickly to changing demands and special requests from clients and management.
• Uphold the reputation of our client as a provider of exceptional culinary experiences in Midrand and beyond.

Requirements

• A formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution is essential.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar role, preferably within high‑end catering or fine dining establishments.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a kitchen team.
• In‑depth knowledge of various cooking techniques, international cuisines, and food presentation.
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP principles, and kitchen hygiene practices.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to multitask effectively.
• Proficiency in inventory management and cost control.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules in Gauteng.
• A passion for food and a commitment to delivering outstanding results.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience. This includes a generous annual salary and potential performance‑based bonuses. You will be part of a supportive and professional work environment where your skills are valued and recognized. Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading catering company are abundant. Access to ongoing training and development programs will be provided. Employees also benefit from working at prestigious venues and with a diverse clientele, providing continuous learning and exposure to various event styles. Our client also provides essential workwear and adheres to all statutory employee benefits as per South African labor laws.