Head Catering Chef

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Relocation assistance may be available

Performance bonuses

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Catering Chef to lead the culinary team at a renowned event venue in Klerksdorp, North West. The role covers menu creation, food preparation, and hands-on kitchen management on-site.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in progressive culinary roles, 3+ years as Head/Executive Chef, and strong leadership plus HACCP expertise. Relocation support may be considered for exceptional candidates.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of progressive culinary experience with at least 3 years as Head Chef or Executive Chef in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Formal culinary training from a recognized institution or equivalent experience.
• Strong knowledge of cuisines, techniques, and presentation.
• Proven leadership and ability to manage and motivate a team.
• Strong financial acumen including food costing and budgeting.
• Excellent understanding of health, safety, and sanitation (HACCP).
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations: menu planning, recipe development, and execution for events.
• Lead, train, and mentor chefs and kitchen staff to foster a productive environment.
• Manage food costs, inventory, and supplier relationships for profitability and quality.
• Maintain high hygiene, safety, and sanitation standards in the kitchen.
• Ensure consistent quality and presentation across event menus.
• Collaborate with sales and events teams to design innovative menus for clients.
• Control expenses and optimize resource allocation for efficiency.
• Stay updated on culinary trends, techniques, and ingredients.
• Conduct regular inventory and place orders as needed.
• Implement and enforce standard operating procedures in the kitchen.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Food costing

Budgeting

Inventory management

HACCP

Kitchen software

Education

Formal culinary training

Tools

Kitchen management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished event venue and catering provider, is seeking an exceptional Head Catering Chef to lead their culinary team in Klerksdorp, North West, ZA . This pivotal role is responsible for all aspects of the kitchen, from menu creation and food preparation to team management and quality control. You will be the creative force behind our client's renowned catering services, ensuring every dish served is of the highest standard in taste, presentation, and quality. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in high-volume catering, a passion for culinary innovation, and proven leadership skills. This is an on-site position demanding dedication to excellence and a hands-on approach to kitchen management within the vibrant Klerksdorp, North West, ZA culinary scene.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations, including menu planning, recipe development, and execution of catering events.


• Lead, train, and mentor a team of chefs and kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.


• Manage food costs, inventory, and supplier relationships to ensure profitability and quality.


• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene, food safety, and sanitation in the kitchen.


• Ensure consistent quality and presentation of all dishes served for various events.


• Collaborate with the sales and event planning teams to create innovative menus and meet client-specific requirements.


• Control kitchen expenses and optimize resource allocation for maximum efficiency.


• Stay updated with the latest culinary trends, techniques, and ingredients.


• Conduct regular kitchen inventory and place orders for necessary supplies.


• Implement and enforce standard operating procedures for the kitchen.

Requirements

• A minimum of 6 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Chef role within a high-volume catering or fine dining establishment.


• Formal culinary training from a recognized institution or equivalent professional experience.


• Exceptional knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, and presentation styles.


• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire.


• Strong financial acumen, including experience with food costing, budgeting, and inventory management.


• Excellent understanding of health, safety, and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP).


• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.


• Creative flair and a passion for delivering exceptional food experiences.


• Proficiency in kitchen management software is a plus.


• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Klerksdorp, North West, ZA .

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflective of experience and skills.


• Opportunity to lead culinary direction for a prestigious venue.


• Access to high-quality ingredients and state-of-the-art kitchen facilities.


• Potential for professional growth and development within the company.


• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.


• Employee recognition programs and performance bonuses.