Executive Sous Chef - Fine Dining Catering

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Professional development opportunities

Creative freedom in menu development

Access to premium ingredients and gear

Dynamic and rewarding work environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Executive Sous Chef for a premier Randburg catering service provider. You will lead the culinary team, collaborate with the Executive Chef on menu development, and ensure the highest standards of food quality and presentation.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in fine dining or high-end catering, formal culinary training, and strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills to thrive in a fast-paced environment in Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a fine dining or high-end catering setting.
• Formal culinary education from a recognized institution.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations and ensure service efficiency.
• Lead and mentor the culinary team, providing training and performance feedback.
• Contribute to menu planning and development with seasonal fine dining concepts.
• Manage inventory control, ordering, stock rotation, and waste reduction.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
• Supervise food preparation, cooking, and plating for consistency and quality.
• Inspections and maintenance of kitchen equipment and facilities.
• Assist in managing food costs and labor budgets.
• Step in for the Executive Chef when needed and oversee operations.

Skills

Leadership & team management

Strong communication

Time management

Problem solving

Pressure tolerance

Menu development

Education

Formal culinary education

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering service provider known for its exquisite fine dining experiences in the Randburg area, is seeking an accomplished Executive Sous Chef. This is a critical leadership role, working closely with the Executive Chef to manage the culinary team and ensure the highest standards of food preparation, presentation, and quality. You will be instrumental in menu development, staff training, inventory management, and maintaining impeccable kitchen hygiene. The ideal candidate possesses a strong culinary background, exceptional leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of fine dining principles. This position requires a proactive approach, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a demanding, fast-paced environment within Gauteng . Your contribution will be key to maintaining and enhancing our client's reputation for culinary excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring smooth and efficient service.
• Lead and mentor the culinary team, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback.
• Contribute to menu planning and development, focusing on innovative fine dining concepts and seasonal ingredients.
• Manage inventory control, including ordering, receiving, stock rotation, and minimizing waste.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
• Supervise food preparation, cooking, and plating to guarantee consistency and quality.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and maintain equipment in optimal working condition.
• Assist in managing food costs and labor budgets effectively.
• Step in for the Executive Chef as needed, managing all kitchen operations in their absence.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie in a fine dining or high-end catering establishment.
• Formal culinary education from a recognized institution is essential.
• Demonstrated expertise in various cooking techniques and culinary arts.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards and regulations.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be available to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and be based in or able to commute to Randburg .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work with a renowned fine dining catering company.
• Professional development and advancement opportunities.
• Creative freedom in menu development.
• Access to high-quality ingredients and equipment.
• A dynamic and rewarding work environment.
• Be part of a culinary team delivering exceptional experiences in Gauteng .