Executive Chef - High-Volume Banqueting

Placements24; Johannesburg; Vor Ort; ZAR 900.000 - 1.800.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Professional development

High-quality kitchen facilities

Creative input on menu direction

Collaborative work environment

Prestigious events exposure

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for high-profile events, combining creative menu development with rigorous quality control. You will manage a dynamic kitchen team, source ingredients, control costs, ensure HACCP compliance, and collaborate with event planners to deliver flawless service for prestigious clients.

This hands-on role requires a culinary degree, 5–7 years of progressive culinary experience including 3+ years in a

Qualifikationen

• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive culinary experience, including at least 3 years in Head Chef or Executive Chef roles within high-volume catering or hotel environments.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution are required.
• Proven expertise in menu engineering, costing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities with a track record of developing staff.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards (HACCP).
• Creative flair with passion for innovative cuisine and presentation.

Aufgaben

• Oversee all kitchen operations including menu planning, food preparation and execution for banquets, corporate events, and private functions.
• Lead, mentor, and manage sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen staff to foster a high-performing team.
• Develop innovative, seasonal menus aligned with client requirements, industry trends, and budgets.
• Source high-quality ingredients, manage supplier relationships, and control inventory to minimize waste.
• Ensure strict HACCP compliance and maintain hygiene standards across kitchen operations.
• Manage food costs and budgets without compromising quality.
• Collaborate with event planners to understand client needs and ensure flawless event execution.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide training and development opportunities.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen facilities.

Kenntnisse

Leadership

Menu engineering

Budgeting

Food safety HACCP

Team management

Menu costing

Communication

Ausbildung

Culinary qualification (formal)

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering company in Johannesburg , is seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Chef to lead their culinary operations. This is a pivotal role, demanding exceptional leadership, creativity, and a deep understanding of large-scale event catering. You will be instrumental in maintaining our client's reputation for excellence, driving innovation in menu development, and ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation for a diverse range of prestigious events. The successful candidate will oversee all kitchen activities, from sourcing ingredients to final plating, managing a dynamic team, and upholding stringent hygiene and safety protocols. This is an exciting opportunity for a culinary artist to make a significant impact in the vibrant Gauteng culinary scene. The role requires a hands-on approach and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, ensuring seamless execution for every function.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including menu planning, food preparation, and execution for banquets, corporate events, and private functions.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen support staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
• Develop innovative and seasonal menus that align with client requirements, industry trends, and budgetary constraints.
• Source high-quality ingredients, establish strong relationships with suppliers, and manage inventory effectively to minimize waste.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations (HACCP principles).
• Control food costs and manage kitchen budgets efficiently without compromising quality.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to understand client needs and ensure successful event execution.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide training and development opportunities for kitchen staff.
• Maintain exceptional standards of cleanliness and organization within the kitchen premises.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Chef role within a high-volume catering or hotel environment.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution.
• Proven expertise in menu engineering, costing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP certification).
• Creative flair with a passion for innovative cuisine and presentation.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Proficiency in budgeting and cost control.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Johannesburg .

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing company.
• Access to high-quality kitchen facilities and resources.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Exposure to a wide array of prestigious events and clientele.
• Potential for creative input on menu development and culinary direction.