Executive Event Chef - Johannesburg

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Performance-based bonuses

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Professional growth opportunities

Dynamic team environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg is seeking an Executive Event Chef to lead a high-volume, fine-dining catering kitchen. You will conceptualize menus, manage production, and ensure exceptional service for prestigious events.

You will mentor a kitchen team, enforce HACCP standards, control costs, and collaborate with events planners to deliver memorable dining experiences across corporate functions and banquets.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive culinary experience in high-end catering or large-scale venues.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution are essential.
• Proven expertise in menu development, food costing and kitchen management.
• Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• In-depth knowledge of HACCP and South African health regulations.
• Inventory management and supplier negotiation experience.
• Ability to manage under pressure and meet tight deadlines for events.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design and cost innovative seasonal menus for various events.
• Oversee kitchen operations, production, quality control and presentation.
• Mentor the kitchen brigade and provide training and development.
• Ensure strict HACCP compliance and hygiene standards.
• Procure ingredients and negotiate supplier terms to optimize costs.
• Collaborate with events planning to translate client briefs into culinary outcomes.
• Maintain inventory control and minimize waste with proper stock rotation.
• Lead by example and contribute to strategic direction of the culinary dept.
• Identify trends and opportunities for culinary innovation.

Skills

Menu development

Food costing

Kitchen management

Leadership

HACCP knowledge

Supplier negotiation

Education

Formal culinary qualifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering and events management company based in the vibrant heart of Johannesburg, Gauteng , is seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Executive Event Chef. This pivotal role requires a culinary artist with a proven track record in high-volume, fine-dining event catering. You will be the creative force behind our gastronomic offerings, responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and executing menus that delight and impress a discerning clientele. The ideal candidate possesses a passion for exquisite food, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to lead a dynamic kitchen team to achieve culinary excellence under pressure. This is an unparalleled opportunity to make a significant impact on the culinary reputation of a leading events provider in one of South Africa's most exciting cities. You will be instrumental in crafting memorable dining experiences for a wide range of prestigious events, from intimate corporate functions to large-scale banquets.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and cost innovative and seasonal menus for various event types, ensuring alignment with client briefs and budget parameters.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, production, quality control, and presentation, to uphold the highest standards of culinary execution.
• Manage and mentor the kitchen brigade, fostering a collaborative and efficient working environment, and providing ongoing training and development.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations (HACCP) in line with local health department standards.
• Procure high-quality ingredients, managing supplier relationships and negotiating favorable terms to optimize food costs without compromising on quality.
• Collaborate closely with the events planning team to understand client requirements and translate them into successful culinary outcomes.
• Maintain meticulous inventory control, minimizing waste and ensuring efficient stock rotation.
• Lead by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic, culinary passion, and commitment to excellence in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
• Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the culinary department, identifying trends and opportunities for innovation.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive culinary experience in high-end catering, fine dining restaurants, or large-scale event venues.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution are essential.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, food costing, and kitchen management.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team.
• Comprehensive knowledge of food safety standards, HACCP principles, and South African health regulations.
• Proficiency in inventory management and supplier negotiation.
• A creative flair with a strong understanding of culinary trends and international cuisine.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules in Johannesburg.
• A passion for delivering outstanding guest experiences through exceptional food.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes a generous annual salary, potential performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic and expanding organization.
• You will also benefit from working with a talented team, access to state-of-the‑art kitchen facilities, and the chance to shape the culinary landscape of premier events in Johannesburg.
• We believe in fostering a supportive and rewarding work environment for our valued team members.