Executive Event Chef — Lead High-End Menus & Team

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

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.