Executive Chef for Luxury Event Catering

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

Benefits offered by this job

Company meals

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

Growth opportunities

State-of-the-art kitchen

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg seeks an Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for high-profile events. You will design innovative menus, manage a dynamic kitchen team, and maintain exceptional quality and presentation while upholding HACCP standards.

The role requires strong leadership, extensive catering experience, and a passion for culinary excellence. You will report to the Operations Director and drive strategic menu development and cost controls in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of progressive catering or fine dining kitchen experience.
• 2–3 years in Head Chef or Executive Chef role.
• Formal culinary qualifications are essential.
• Proven expertise in menu engineering and food costing.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of HACCP and kitchen sanitation.
• Ability to manage multiple events and work under pressure.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Portfolio of catering or fine dining creations encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and execute innovative event menus.
• Lead kitchen team including sous chefs and cooks.
• Maintain top food quality and presentation standards.
• Oversee inventory, food costing, procurement, and supplier relations.
• Ensure strict hygiene and safety compliance.
• Collaborate with events planning team for seamless execution.
• Inspire a positive, productive kitchen environment.
• Control costs and waste through portion control.
• Stay updated on current culinary trends and tasting sessions.
• Conduct regular quality checks and tastings.

Skills

Executive leadership

Menu engineering

Food costing

Inventory management

Staff management

HACCP & food safety

Menu development

Communication

Organizational skills

Creativity

Education

Culinary qualification

Tools

Kitchen management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering and events company based in Johannesburg, Gauteng , is seeking an exceptionally talented and experienced Executive Chef 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 and prestigious weddings. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for innovation, a deep understanding of diverse cuisines, and an unwavering commitment to quality and presentation. You will be instrumental in maintaining our client's reputation for excellence and exceeding the expectations of discerning clientele. This role demands strong leadership skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding environment. The Executive Chef will report directly to the Operations Director and will be a key member of the management team, contributing to strategic planning and business development within the catering division.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute innovative menus for a wide range of events, considering seasonality, dietary restrictions, and client preferences.
• Manage all aspects of the kitchen, including staff supervision, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation for a team of sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen assistants.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, preparation, and presentation are consistently maintained.
• Oversee inventory management, food costing, procurement, and supplier relations to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Maintain rigorous hygiene and sanitation standards in accordance with health and safety regulations.
• Collaborate closely with the events planning team to ensure seamless execution of all culinary aspects of client events.
• Lead and inspire the kitchen team, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Control food costs and waste through effective inventory management and portion control.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends and incorporate them into menu development.
• Conduct regular quality checks and tasting sessions.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in a high-volume catering or fine dining kitchen, with at least 2-3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Chef role.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution are essential.
• Proven expertise in menu engineering, food costing, and inventory management.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP principles, and kitchen sanitation best practices.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events simultaneously.
• Creativity, a passion for food, and a keen eye for detail in presentation.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in kitchen management software is advantageous.
• A portfolio showcasing previous catering or fine dining creations would be highly regarded.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead culinary innovation for a prestigious catering company in Johannesburg .
• Access to high-quality ingredients and state-of-the-art kitchen facilities.
• Professional development and growth opportunities within a dynamic industry.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Company-provided meals during working hours.
• Contribute to unforgettable culinary experiences for a diverse clientele.