Executive Chef - Remote Operations Lead

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote role

Health benefits

Professional development

Global brand exposure

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef to lead remote culinary operations for a global catering brand. This remote-first role focuses on strategic menu development, quality standards, and operational excellence across diverse client portfolios from anywhere.

You will manage a geographically dispersed team, ensure food safety and cost control, and collaborate with events teams to deliver bespoke catering experiences while upholding outstanding service and sophisticated presentation.

Qualifications

• 8+ years progressive experience in high-end catering or fine dining
• 3+ years in senior leadership or executive chef role
• Proven ability to develop and execute complex menus for large-scale events
• Excellent understanding of various international cuisines, plating techniques, and presentation
• Strong leadership and remote team management skills
• Excellent financial acumen including menu costing, budget management, and inventory control
• Experience with virtual collaboration tools for remote management and communication
• Desire for culinary innovation and maintaining top quality and service
• Culinary degree or equivalent certification is desirable
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for virtual client and team interactions

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative menus for diverse client portfolios
• Oversee and manage a dispersed team of culinary professionals
• Ensure food safety, hygiene, and quality standards across operations
• Manage food costs, inventory, and supplier relationships
• Collaborate with events teams to design bespoke catering experiences
• Stay updated on global culinary trends and sourcing
• Conduct remote training and development for culinary staff
• Uphold the client's reputation for exceptional quality and service

Skills

Remote leadership

Menu development

Cost management

Food safety

Team motivation

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative force in the global catering industry, is seeking a highly accomplished and visionary Executive Chef to lead their remote culinary operations. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of high-end catering from a remote-first perspective, driving culinary excellence and strategic menu development across diverse client portfolios. You will be instrumental in defining and executing our client's global culinary vision, ensuring consistent quality and creativity while managing a distributed team of talented chefs and culinary professionals. This role requires a leader with impeccable taste, a deep understanding of global cuisines, and the ability to inspire and manage remotely. The successful candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment and possess a passion for pushing the boundaries of culinary arts, all while ensuring operational efficiency and client satisfaction. This position offers the flexibility and autonomy to work from anywhere, making it ideal for a seasoned professional seeking a transformative career move. Join us in redefining what's possible in remote-managed catering excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative, high-quality menus that cater to diverse dietary requirements and evolving culinary trends for clients across Johannesburg and beyond.
• Oversee and manage a geographically dispersed team of culinary professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance remote work environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and quality control standards across all catering operations, maintaining the highest levels of excellence.
• Manage food costs, inventory, and supplier relationships effectively to optimize profitability and ensure consistent supply of premium ingredients.
• Collaborate with event planning teams and clients to conceptualize and execute bespoke catering experiences, ensuring seamless delivery and exceptional client satisfaction.
• Stay abreast of global culinary trends, techniques, and ingredient sourcing, continuously seeking opportunities for menu innovation and operational improvement.
• Conduct remote training and development sessions for culinary staff, promoting skill enhancement and knowledge sharing.
• Uphold the reputation of our client for exceptional quality and service in all culinary endeavors.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in high-end catering or fine dining, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership or executive chef role.
• Proven track record of developing and executing complex menus for large-scale events and diverse clientele.
• Exceptional understanding of various international cuisines, plating techniques, and food presentation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a remote workforce effectively.
• Excellent financial acumen, including experience with menu costing, budget management, and inventory control.
• Proficiency in using virtual collaboration tools and technology for remote management and communication.
• A passion for culinary innovation, creativity, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.
• Relevant culinary degree or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.
• Must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaunt effectively with clients and team members virtually.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and expertise.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits program.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in a growing industry.
• The flexibility of a fully remote role, allowing for work-life balance and geographical freedom.
• Access to cutting-edge culinary resources and technologies.
• Chance to make a significant impact on a global brand and shape the future of remote culinary operations.
• Travel opportunities for key client meetings and team summits as required.