Executive Chef - High-End Events

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Opportunity to lead culinaryinnovation

Professional development and growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef in Midrand to lead culinary operations, develop high-end menus, and ensure top guest experiences. You will manage a busy kitchen, oversee costing, inventory, training, and safety, and drive innovation while maintaining quality and cost control.

The role demands leadership, robustness under pressure, and a passion for outstanding food, with relocation to or residence in Midrand, Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution.
• Extensive knowledge of international cuisines and modern cooking techniques.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory management, and financial acumen.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in relevant kitchen management software.
• Creative flair and passion for delivering outstanding food.

Responsibilities

• Develop creative and appealing menus for various events, considering seasonality, client preferences, and budget constraints.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and presentation.
• Manage inventory, stock control, and ordering of food supplies, ensuring optimal quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead, train, and mentor a team of kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety and hygiene regulations (HACCP, etc.).
• Collaborate with the event planning team to ensure seamless execution of all culinary aspects for catered events.
• Control food costs and waste management to maximize profitability.
• Conduct regular quality checks and taste panels to maintain culinary standards.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends and innovations.

Skills

Executive Kitchen Leadership

Kitchen Operations Management

Food Costing & Inventory

Menu Development

Team Training & Mentoring

Communication Skills

Education

Culinary Qualification (Formal)

Supervisory/Leadership Training

Tools

Kitchen Management Software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering and event management company, is seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to lead their culinary operations in Midrand, Gauteng . This is a pivotal role responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and executing high-quality menus for a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions. The ideal candidate will possess a refined palate, a passion for innovative cuisine, and a proven ability to manage a busy kitchen environment. You will be instrumental in maintaining and elevating our client's reputation for culinary excellence and exceptional guest experiences. This role requires a hands-on approach and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop creative and appealing menus for various events, considering seasonality, client preferences, and budget constraints.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and presentation.
• Manage inventory, stock control, and ordering of food supplies, ensuring optimal quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead, train, and mentor a team of kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety and hygiene regulations (HACCP, etc.).
• Collaborate with the event planning team to ensure seamless execution of all culinary aspects for catered events.
• Control food costs and waste management to maximize profitability.
• Conduct regular quality checks and taste panels to maintain culinary standards.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends and innovations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume catering or fine dining establishment.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution.
• Extensive knowledge of various international cuisines and modern cooking techniques.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory management, and financial acumen.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in relevant kitchen management software.
• A creative flair and passion for delivering outstanding food.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Midrand, Gauteng area.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead culinary innovation for a leading event catering company.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.
• Dynamic and exciting work environment.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Uniform and essential kitchen tools provided.