Executive Event Chef

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Midrand seeks an Executive Event Chef to lead culinary operations for high-profile events. You will shape the culinary direction, manage kitchen staff, and ensure strict hygiene and safety standards while delivering exceptional dining experiences.

The ideal candidate has a proven track record in fine dining and large-scale catering, with strong leadership, menu development, and cost-control skills. This role offers a dynamic, fast-paced environment and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as Executive/Head Chef, preferably in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification from a recognized institution.
• Proven expertise in menu development, costing, and kitchen management.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP, and general kitchen hygiene practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all culinary operations, including menu planning, food preparation, and execution for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large banquets.
• Develop innovative and seasonal menus that cater to diverse client needs and dietary restrictions, with a focus on premium ingredients and presentation.
• Manage, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Control food costs, inventory management, and procurement to ensure profitability and minimize waste.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations (HACCP standards).
• Collaborate with event coordinators and clients to understand their specific culinary requirements and deliver exceptional dining experiences.
• Ensure consistency and quality in all dishes served, upholding the reputation of our client.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and culinary advancements to continuously enhance offerings.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Cost control

Menu development

Time management

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent certification

Tools

Inventory management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering and hospitality provider in Midrand, Gauteng, is seeking an exceptionally talented and experienced Executive Event Chef. This pivotal role is responsible for leading our culinary operations and ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and innovation for a diverse range of high-profile events. You will be instrumental in shaping the culinary direction, managing kitchen staff, and maintaining impeccable hygiene and safety standards. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, working with a dedicated team committed to excellence. The ideal candidate will possess a strong passion for food and a proven track record in fine dining and large-scale event catering. We are looking for a creative visionary who can inspire and lead.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all culinary operations, including menu planning, food preparation, and execution for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large banquets.
• Develop innovative and seasonal menus that cater to diverse client needs and dietary restrictions, with a focus on premium ingredients and presentation.
• Manage, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Control food costs, inventory management, and procurement to ensure profitability and minimize waste.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations (HACCP standards).
• Collaborate with event coordinators and clients to understand their specific culinary requirements and deliver exceptional dining experiences.
• Ensure consistency and quality in all dishes served, upholding the reputation of our client.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and culinary advancements to continuously enhance offerings.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef, with a significant portion in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification from a recognized institution.
• Proven expertise in menu development, costing, and kitchen management.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP, and general kitchen hygiene practices.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a demanding environment.
• Proficiency in inventory management and cost control techniques.
• A creative flair and passion for delivering outstanding culinary creations.
• Experience in leading and motivating a diverse kitchen team.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Midrand, Gauteng area.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead culinary direction for a prestigious catering company.
• Access to state-of-the-art kitchen facilities.
• Professional development and growth opportunities within a reputable organization.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment focused on excellence and teamwork.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.