Head Caterer & Menu Architect for High-Impact Events

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and provident fund

Staff meals provided

Professional growth

Collaborative team environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Caterer for its Paarl, Western Cape operations. You will shape the culinary direction, lead the kitchen team, and ensure exceptional event catering for weddings and corporate functions.

The role demands a culinary degree and 7+ years in professional kitchens, with strong leadership, menu design, food safety, and cost control expertise. Flexibility for evenings and weekends is required to meet events.

Qualifications

• Culinary degree with 7+ years in professional kitchens.
• Experience as Head Chef or in a senior leadership role.
• Strong menu design and food costing skills.
• Expertise in HACCP and food safety regulations.
• Proven ability to lead and develop a kitchen team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexible hours including evenings and weekends for events.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the kitchen brigade for events.
• Develop innovative and appealing menus for diverse dietary needs.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation for events.
• Maintain stringent standards of food safety, hygiene, and sanitation.
• Manage food costs, inventory control, and procurement of ingredients.
• Collaborate with the events team to ensure seamless execution of catering services.
• Conduct regular quality checks and taste panels for menu items.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a culture of excellence.
• Ensure efficient resource allocation and waste minimization within the kitchen.
• Represent the company’s culinary excellence in Paarl and surrounding areas.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Menu design

Food safety (HACCP)

Food costing

Inventory management

Staff training

Client-facing communication

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Head Caterer for its Paarl, Western Cape operations. You will shape the culinary direction, lead the kitchen team, and ensure exceptional event catering for weddings and corporate functions.

The role demands a culinary degree and 7+ years in professional kitchens, with strong leadership, menu design, food safety, and cost control expertise. Flexibility for evenings and weekends is required to meet events.