Executive Event Chef

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Access to high-quality ingredients

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg seeks an Executive Event Chef to lead culinary operations for premier catering and events. You will conceive, develop, and execute high-end menus for weddings, galas, and corporate functions, while guiding a skilled kitchen team to deliver extraordinary dining experiences.

The role requires a minimum of 7 years in a similar capacity, with strong menu costing, international cuisine knowledge, HACCP compliance, and exceptional organization.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in Executive/Head Chef roles in high-end catering or hospitality.
• Proven menu development, costing, and kitchen management experience.
• Strong leadership, training, and staff motivation abilities.
• Extensive knowledge of international cuisines, plating, and presentation.
• Solid understanding of HACCP, hygiene, and safety standards.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication with clients and internal teams.
• Inventory management and supplier negotiation experience.
• Formal culinary qualification is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and sophisticated menus tailored to client requirements and trends.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation for events.
• Lead and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring high performance and safety.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and negotiate with suppliers.
• Collaborate with event planning teams to ensure seamless culinary execution.
• Maintain compliance with health and sanitation regulations in the kitchen.
• Conduct regular taste tests and quality control checks.
• Continuously research and implement new techniques and ingredients.
• Maintain a clean, organized, well-equipped kitchen environment.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Cost control

Team management

Food safety

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering and event management company in Johannesburg , is seeking an exceptionally talented and experienced Executive Event Chef to lead their culinary operations. This pivotal role demands creativity, impeccable organizational skills, and a deep understanding of diverse culinary styles. The successful candidate will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and executing high-end menus for a wide range of events, from intimate corporate dinners to large-scale weddings and galas. This is a demanding yet rewarding position for a passionate culinary artist who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and is dedicated to delivering unparalleled dining experiences. You will play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing our client's reputation for excellence in the Johannesburg catering scene.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and sophisticated menus tailored to client requirements, seasonal availability, and current culinary trends.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation for events of varying sizes.
• Manage and mentor a team of kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of performance, hygiene, and safety.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.
• Collaborate closely with the event planning team to ensure seamless execution of all culinary aspects of events.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations in the kitchen.
• Conduct regular taste tests and quality control checks to uphold culinary excellence.
• Continuously research and implement new techniques and ingredients to elevate the dining experience.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped kitchen environment.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of experience in a similar Executive Chef or Head Chef role within the high-end catering or hospitality industry.
• Proven experience in menu development, costing, and kitchen management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and train staff effectively.
• Extensive knowledge of international cuisines, plating techniques, and food presentation.
• Excellent understanding of food safety, hygiene standards, and HACCP principles.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively with clients and internal teams.
• Proficiency in inventory management and supplier negotiation.
• A formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution is highly desirable.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Johannesburg.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead culinary innovation for a respected event catering company.
• Access to high-quality ingredients and state-of-the-art kitchen facilities.
• Exposure to a diverse range of prestigious events and high-profile clients.
• Potential for professional development and career growth within the organization.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment that values culinary artistry and dedication.
• Be part of shaping unforgettable culinary experiences in Johannesburg.