Executive Event Chef for Corporate Catering

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Dynamic team

Uniform provided

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Event Chef to lead culinary operations for our client in Midrand, Gauteng. This hands-on role demands creative menu design, strong leadership of a kitchen team, and flawless dining experiences for high-profile events.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years in a senior culinary role, formal culinary qualifications, proven team leadership, extensive knowledge of cuisines and HACCP, and superior project and budget management.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a senior culinary role, preferably high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire a kitchen team.
• Excellent knowledge of cuisines, techniques, and presentation.
• Strong HACCP and food safety understanding.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple events in fast-paced environments.
• Proficient in menu costing, inventory control, and budgeting.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays in Midrand.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute innovative and diverse menus for a wide range of corporate and private events, considering client preferences, dietary restrictions, and seasonal availability.
• Lead, mentor, and manage the kitchen brigade, including sous chefs, commis chefs, and kitchen porters, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including inventory management, food costing, ordering, and supplier relations, ensuring optimal resource utilization and cost control.
• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene, sanitation, and food safety across all kitchen areas, adhering to all relevant regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate closely with the events and sales teams to ensure seamless event execution, from menu tasting to final service delivery.
• Conduct regular training sessions for kitchen staff to enhance skills and ensure consistency in preparation and presentation.
• Manage kitchen budgets effectively and contribute to profitability targets.
• Ensure all food is prepared and presented to the highest standard, reflecting the artistry and quality expected by our discerning clientele.

Skills

Leadership

Menu costing

HACCP knowledge

Food safety

Budget management

Communication

Organization

Time management

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering service provider, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Executive Event Chef to lead their culinary operations in Midrand, Gauteng. This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate chef to contribute to high-profile events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions. The ideal candidate will be a creative force, capable of designing bespoke menus, managing a dynamic kitchen team, and ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation. You will play a crucial role in client consultations, menu development, and executing flawless dining experiences. This role requires a hands‑on approach, exceptional leadership, and a deep understanding of diverse culinary techniques and food safety protocols. The successful candidate will be instrumental in maintaining our client's reputation for excellence in the competitive Gauteng catering market.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute innovative and diverse menus for a wide range of corporate and private events, considering client preferences, dietary restrictions, and seasonal availability.
• Lead, mentor, and manage the kitchen brigade, including sous chefs, commis chefs, and kitchen porters, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including inventory management, food costing, ordering, and supplier relations, ensuring optimal resource utilization and cost control.
• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene, sanitation, and food safety across all kitchen areas, adhering to all relevant regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate closely with the events and sales teams to ensure seamless event execution, from menu tasting to final service delivery.
• Conduct regular training sessions for kitchen staff to enhance skills and ensure consistency in preparation and presentation.
• Manage kitchen budgets effectively and contribute to profitability targets.
• Ensure all food is prepared and presented to the highest standard, reflecting the artistry and quality expected by our discerning clientele.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior culinary role, preferably within high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire a kitchen team.
• Exceptional knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, and food presentation.
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP principles, and kitchen management best practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in menu costing, inventory control, and budget management.
• A passion for food and a commitment to culinary excellence.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules in the Midrand area.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic and reputable catering company.
• Access to professional development and training opportunities.
• Be part of a supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Contribute to memorable events for a diverse corporate clientele in Gauteng.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.
• Uniform and access to kitchen facilities.