Head Caterer

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

High-quality kitchen facilities

Dynamic work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Head Caterer to lead our catering operations in Midrand. You will oversee menus, food preparation, client liaison, and team management to deliver exceptional service for a wide range of events.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in senior catering or culinary management, a culinary degree or equivalent, and a proven track record in menu development, food costing, and HACCP compliance.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior catering or culinary management role.
• Proven experience in menu development, food costing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent understanding of food safety regulations and HACCP principles.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and client relationship management skills.
• Culinary degree or equivalent qualification desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and appealing menus tailored to client specifications and current culinary trends.
• Manage and mentor a team of chefs, kitchen staff, and service personnel, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Oversee all food preparation, ensuring adherence to strict quality control, hygiene, and safety standards.
• Manage inventory, procurement of supplies, and budget control to optimize costs and minimize waste.
• Coordinate with clients to understand their event needs, providing expert advice and ensuring flawless execution of catering services.
• Conduct post-event analysis to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement in service and operations.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Inventory management

Food safety (HACCP)

Client relationship management

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks an experienced and dynamic Head Caterer to lead their catering operations in Midrand . This pivotal role involves overseeing all aspects of event catering, from menu planning and food preparation to client liaison and team management. You will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and service for a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership skills, a passion for culinary excellence, and a keen eye for detail, ensuring seamless execution and client satisfaction in a demanding, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and appealing menus tailored to client specifications and current culinary trends.
• Manage and mentor a team of chefs, kitchen staff, and service personnel, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Oversee all food preparation, ensuring adherence to strict quality control, hygiene, and safety standards.
• Manage inventory, procurement of supplies, and budget control to optimize costs and minimize waste.
• Coordinate with clients to understand their event needs, providing expert advice and ensuring flawless execution of catering services.
• Conduct post-event analysis to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement in service and operations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior catering or culinary management role.
• Proven experience in menu development, food costing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities, with the ability to motivate and guide staff effectively.
• Excellent understanding of food safety regulations and HACCP principles.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and client relationship management skills.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Access to high-quality kitchen facilities and resources.
• A dynamic work environment with a focus on culinary creativity and client satisfaction.
• Potential for involvement in prestigious events and diverse client portfolios.