Head Caterer - Special Events

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Shape culinary direction of high‑level

Professional development

Team environment

Performance-related bonuses

Provident fund

Company vehicle

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking an experienced Head Caterer to lead our special events division. You will manage the culinary team, develop menus for weddings, galas and private functions, and ensure flawless execution from planning to service.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in catering, with at least 3 in leadership, HACCP certification, strong budgeting, supplier relations, and exceptional client communication.

Qualifications

• 6+ years catering experience with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Formal culinary qualification or equivalent experience.
• Proven expertise in menu development, costing, and execution for large-scale events.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards (HACCP essential).

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team for special events, including recruitment, training, and performance management.
• Develop creative, high-quality, and cost-effective menus tailored to diverse special event requirements.
• Oversee all food preparation, cooking, and presentation, ensuring adherence to the highest standards.
• Manage event budgets, including food costing, procurement, and waste control.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations (HACCP).
• Collaborate with event planners and clients to understand their vision and requirements.
• Manage inventory, supplier relationships, and procurement of ingredients and supplies.
• Oversee the setup and execution of catering services on-site at various event locations.
• Conduct taste tests and quality control assessments.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues during event execution.
• Stay abreast of culinary trends and industry best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Cost control

HACCP

Budgeting

Client communication

Negotiation

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role Our client, a highly regarded event management and catering company operating in **Polokwane**, is seeking an experienced and visionary Head Caterer to lead their special events division. This role demands a strategic thinker with exceptional culinary expertise, strong operational management skills, and a flair for creating unique and memorable dining experiences. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of catering for high-profile special events, including weddings, corporate galas, and exclusive private functions. The ideal candidate will manage the culinary team, develop innovative menus, control costs, and ensure flawless execution from planning to service, upholding the company's reputation for excellence in **Polokwane, Limpopo**. This is a leadership position for a dedicated professional passionate about delivering outstanding catering services.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team for special events, including recruitment, training, and performance management.
• Develop creative, high-quality, and cost-effective menus tailored to diverse special event requirements.
• Oversee all food preparation, cooking, and presentation, ensuring adherence to the highest standards.
• Manage event budgets, including food costing, procurement, and waste control.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations (HACCP).
• Collaborate closely with event planners and clients to understand their vision and requirements.
• Manage inventory, supplier relationships, and procurement of ingredients and supplies.
• Oversee the setup and execution of catering services on-site at various event locations.
• Conduct taste tests and quality control assessments.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues that arise during event execution.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in catering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role (e.g., Head Caterer, Executive Chef in a relevant setting).
• Formal culinary qualification or equivalent experience.
• Proven expertise in menu development, costing, and execution for large-scale events.
• Strong leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards (HACCP certification is essential).
• Excellent organizational, planning, and logistical skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a dynamic event environment.
• Strong negotiation skills with suppliers.
• Excellent communication and client-facing skills.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, in and around **Polokwane**.
• A passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.
• Opportunity to shape the culinary direction of high-profile events.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.
• A supportive and dynamic team environment.
• Performance-related bonuses.
• Contribution to a provident fund.
• Company vehicle may be provided.