Head Caterer & Menu Innovation Leader

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-related bonuses

Opportunity to shape culinary方向

Access to state-of-the-art kitchen

Professional development and learning

Generous leave allowance

Accommodation assistance may be noted

Team dedicated to unforgettable events

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay is seeking a Head Caterer to lead the culinary team and shape our event dining experiences. You will design innovative menus, oversee all kitchen operations, and ensure exceptional food quality and presentation for high-profile events.

The role blends creative menu design with hands-on kitchen leadership, requiring strong leadership, budgeting acumen, and a passion for superior ingredients. Hybrid work supports strategic planning and operations.

Qualifications

• Significant experience (5+ years) as a Head Chef/Executive Chef/Senior Catering Chef.
• Portfolio in event catering.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent understanding of kitchen operations, food safety, sanitation, inventory management.
• Strong financial acumen with budgeting, cost control, and P&L management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant kitchen management software.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility to work varied hours incl evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution is highly desirable.
• Passion for high-quality ingredients and exceptional food presentation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire kitchen brigade to foster a positive, productive environment.
• Develop innovative, cost-effective menus for diverse client needs and events.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure quality.
• Manage inventory, ordering, receiving, storage, and stock control to minimize waste and maximize profitability.
• Enforce strict hygiene, health, and safety protocols within the kitchen.
• Collaborate with the sales and event planning teams to tailor catering solutions.
• Conduct regular taste testing and quality control checks on dishes.
• Manage kitchen staff schedules, training, and performance evaluations.
• Control food costs and labor expenses to meet budget targets.
• Stay updated on culinary trends, techniques, and ingredient sourcing.
• Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the catering department.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Culinary innovation

Food safety

Inventory management

Budgeting

P&L management

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Culinary qualification

Tools

Kitchen management software

Job description

Placements24 in Richards Bay is seeking a Head Caterer to lead the culinary team and shape our event dining experiences. You will design innovative menus, oversee all kitchen operations, and ensure exceptional food quality and presentation for high-profile events.

The role blends creative menu design with hands-on kitchen leadership, requiring strong leadership, budgeting acumen, and a passion for superior ingredients. Hybrid work supports strategic planning and operations.