Executive Sous Chef — Lead High-End Event Catering

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career development

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking an Executive Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef in overseeing all aspects of high-end catering operations. The candidate will maintain top food quality, presentation, and sanitation, while mentoring staff and driving menu development.

Ideal applicants bring 5+ years in catering or fine dining, a culinary degree, and strong leadership. This role offers growth within a respected Durban-based organization in KwaZulu-Natal's vibrant culinary scene.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification required.
• Extensive knowledge of techniques, cuisines, and flavors.
• Experience with menu development, costing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Solid understanding of food safety, hygiene, and HACCP.
• Proficient in kitchen management software and standard office apps.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist Executive Chef with menu planning, development, and costing for events.
• Supervise and mentor kitchen staff to maintain high performance.
• Ensure consistent quality and presentation of all dishes.
• Manage inventory, purchasing, and supplier relationships.
• Oversee kitchen operations during events, including plating.
• Enforce strict food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Contribute to menu innovation and new culinary trends.
• Schedule staff efficiently and conduct performance reviews.
• Uphold the company's reputation for bespoke catering in Durban.

Skills

Leadership

Menu costing

Inventory management

Food safety HACCP

Kitchen management software

Multitasking

Communication

Detail-oriented

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Tools

Kitchen management software

MS Office

Job description

Placements24 in Durban is seeking an Executive Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef in overseeing all aspects of high-end catering operations. The candidate will maintain top food quality, presentation, and sanitation, while mentoring staff and driving menu development.

Ideal applicants bring 5+ years in catering or fine dining, a culinary degree, and strong leadership. This role offers growth within a respected Durban-based organization in KwaZulu-Natal's vibrant culinary scene.