Executive Chef - High-Volume Catering

Placements24; George; Sur place; ZAR 700 000 - 1 200 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Medical aid

Provident fund contributions

Staff meals

Employee discounts

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef in George, Western Cape, to lead culinary operations for a premier catering and events provider. You will craft innovative menus, oversee food preparation and presentation, and drive high standards of hygiene and safety across a dynamic kitchen team.

This is a leadership role demanding strategic thinking and a passion for culinary excellence. You will manage menu development, food costing, and inventory while mentoring a team of sous chefs and cooks.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years progressive culinary experience with at least 3 years in an Executive/Head Chef role in high-volume catering or similar.
• Strong menu development, food costing, and inventory management expertise.
• Proven leadership and ability to inspire and manage a culinary team.
• Deep knowledge of culinary techniques, food safety regulations, and sanitation practices.

Responsabilités

• Conceptualize and develop diverse menus for a range of catering events.
• Lead kitchen operations including procurement, prep, cooking, and presentation.
• Mentor and train sous chefs and kitchen staff.
• Ensure strict hygiene and HACCP compliance.
• Manage food costs through inventory and supplier negotiations.
• Collaborate with sales and management on event menus and tastings.

Connaissances

Menu development

Food costing

Inventory management

Leadership

Food safety

Culinary techniques

Communication

Formation

Culinary degree or equivalent

Outils

Kitchen management software

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a renowned catering and event services provider in George, Western Cape , is looking for an Executive Chef to lead its culinary operations. This is a high-impact role responsible for creating innovative menus, managing kitchen staff, and ensuring the highest quality of food preparation and presentation for a wide array of events, from corporate functions to large-scale weddings. The Executive Chef will be a creative force, driving culinary excellence and maintaining exceptional standards of hygiene and safety within the kitchen environment. If you are a passionate culinary leader with a flair for innovation and a commitment to quality, this opportunity in the beautiful George region is for you. The role requires a strategic thinker capable of managing complex culinary operations while inspiring a team of dedicated kitchen professionals. This is a cornerstone position for our client's continued success.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute diverse and high-quality menus for various catering events.
• Manage all aspects of kitchen operations, including food procurement, preparation, cooking, and presentation.
• Lead, train, and mentor a team of sous chefs, cooks, and kitchen support staff.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards (HACCP).
• Control food costs through effective inventory management, waste reduction, and supplier negotiations.
• Collaborate with the catering sales and management teams to plan event menus and client tastings.
• Maintain and improve the efficiency and organization of the kitchen workspace.
• Monitor culinary trends and incorporate them into menu development.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to kitchen staff.
• Manage equipment maintenance and ensure all kitchen machinery is in good working order.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in culinary arts, with at least 3 years as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a high-volume catering or similar establishment.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, food costing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities with the ability to inspire and motivate staff.
• In-depth knowledge of culinary techniques, food safety regulations, and sanitation practices.
• Exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in kitchen management software and standard office applications.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules in George .
• A passion for food and a commitment to delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and provident fund contributions.
• Our client provides ample opportunities for professional growth and culinary exploration.
• You will have the creative freedom to shape the culinary direction of a leading catering company.
• Additional perks include staff meals, employee discounts, and access to exciting events.
• We believe in fostering a positive and supportive work environment that encourages innovation and culinary artistry.
• Join a team that values your expertise and passion for creating unforgettable dining experiences in the scenic Western Cape .