Executive Event Chef

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 860,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Career development and advancement

Dynamic and creative work environment

Exposure to prestigious events

Bonus potential

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Executive Event Chef to lead culinary operations for premier events in Polokwane, Limpopo. You will shape menus, oversee all food preparation, and ensure flawless execution for a range of gatherings from intimate to grand banquets.

The role requires a minimum of 7 years in culinary roles, with 3+ years in senior positions, strong leadership, and a deep knowledge of food safety. Relocation to Polokwane is expected and a dynamic, high-performance kitchen environment awaits.

Qualifications

• 7+ years progressive culinary experience with at least 3 years in a senior role
• Experience in menu costing and inventory control
• Leadership experience in high-volume catering or fine dining

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute seasonal menus for events with client dietary requirements and budgets
• Lead and mentor a culinary team to deliver high-profile events
• Supervise all food production, sourcing, inventory, and food safety standards
• Collaborate with event planners to translate client vision into culinary offerings
• Manage costs including food, labor, and equipment to meet profitability targets
• Maintain presentation standards and quality for all dishes
• Conduct team training to enhance culinary skills and service excellence

Skills

Team leadership

Menu development

Costing & inventory

Food safety HACCP

Communication with clients

Pressure management

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Tools

Kitchen equipment knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering and hospitality group, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Executive Event Chef to lead their culinary operations in Polokwane, Limpopo. This is a pivotal role demanding exceptional leadership, creativity, and a deep understanding of fine dining and large-scale event catering. The ideal candidate will be passionate about delivering unforgettable culinary experiences, managing a dynamic kitchen team, and upholding the highest standards of quality and presentation. You will be instrumental in shaping the menu, overseeing all food preparation, and ensuring seamless execution for a diverse range of high-profile events, from intimate gatherings to grand banquets. This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact within a prestigious organization known for its commitment to excellence in the Polokwane area.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute creative, seasonal menus for various events, considering client preferences, dietary restrictions, and budget constraints.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of culinary professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance kitchen environment.
• Oversee all aspects of food production, including sourcing high-quality ingredients, managing inventory, and ensuring strict adherence to food safety and sanitation standards.
• Collaborate closely with event planners and clients to understand their vision and translate it into exceptional culinary offerings.
• Manage kitchen operational costs, including food purchasing, labor, and equipment maintenance, to achieve profitability targets.
• Maintain impeccable standards of presentation and quality for all dishes served.
• Conduct regular team training sessions to enhance culinary skills and uphold service excellence.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends, techniques, and industry best practices.
• Ensure efficient workflow and timely preparation and delivery of all food items for scheduled events in Polokwane.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a senior role (e.g., Head Chef, Executive Sous Chef) within a high-volume catering or fine dining establishment.
• Proven experience in menu development, costing, and inventory management.
• Exceptional leadership and team management skills, with a talent for motivating and developing staff.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (HACCP certification is a plus).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and client-facing skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and maintain composure in a fast-paced environment.
• Creative flair and a passion for innovative cuisine.
• Proficiency in basic business and financial management, including budget control.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Polokwane.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading catering company.
• A dynamic and creative work environment.
• Exposure to a wide range of prestigious events.
• Contribution to a company that values quality and innovation.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.