Head Catering Chef

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid and retirement fund

Housing allowance

Subsidized meals

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Head Catering Chef for Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will lead a high-volume kitchen, develop innovative menus, and mentor a brigade to deliver exceptional culinary experiences for events of all sizes.

You will manage food safety, costs, and operations while staying ahead of trends and ensuring top-quality presentation. Flexible hours for event schedules are required in Mossel Bay.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as Head Chef or senior role in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Culinary degree or diploma or equivalent professional experience.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate a kitchen team.
• Expertise in menu design, food costing, inventory management, and kitchen operations.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and HACCP principles.
• Exceptional creativity and passion for food with strong presentation skills.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations for catering events.
• Create innovative menus reflecting seasonal ingredients and trends.
• Oversee chefs and kitchen staff with training and performance management.
• Ensure HACCP compliance and high standards of food safety.
• Manage inventory, stock levels, and waste minimization.
• Control food costs and labor expenses to meet budgets.
• Collaborate with events team to ensure flawless execution.
• Maintain equipment and conduct quality checks.
• Stay updated on culinary techniques and industry trends.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Skills

Leadership

Menu design

Cost management

Team mentorship

Food safety HACCP

Communication

Presentation

Adaptability

Education

Culinary degree or diploma

Tools

Kitchen management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event venue and catering service provider in the scenic Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is seeking an exceptionally talented and creative Head Catering Chef. This is a leadership role where you will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and executing outstanding culinary experiences for a wide array of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale banquets. You will lead a team of skilled kitchen professionals, manage all aspects of kitchen operations, and ensure the highest standards of food quality, safety, and presentation are consistently met. The ideal candidate is a culinary visionary with a passion for innovation, a strong understanding of cost management, and a proven ability to inspire and mentor a kitchen brigade. This is a unique opportunity to leave your culinary mark on one of the Western Cape's most sought-after venues.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations, including menu development, food preparation, cooking, and presentation for all catering events.
• Create innovative and appealing menus that cater to diverse tastes and dietary requirements, reflecting seasonal availability and culinary trends.
• Oversee a team of chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff, providing training, guidance, and performance management.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards (HACCP principles).
• Manage kitchen inventory, including ordering of supplies, monitoring stock levels, and minimizing waste.
• Control food costs and labor expenses to meet budgetary targets without compromising on quality.
• Collaborate with the catering and events team to understand client needs and ensure seamless execution of all culinary aspects of events.
• Maintain kitchen equipment, ensuring it is in good working order and properly maintained.
• Conduct taste panels and quality control checks to guarantee exceptional food standards.
• Stay abreast of the latest culinary techniques and industry trends, incorporating them into menu planning and kitchen practices.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume catering or fine dining establishment.
• Culinary degree or diploma from a recognized institution, or equivalent professional experience.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate a kitchen team.
• Expertise in menu design, food costing, inventory management, and kitchen operations.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and HACCP principles.
• Exceptional creativity and passion for food, with a strong palate and eye for presentation.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and maintain high standards in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be willing to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required for event schedules in Mossel Bay, Western Cape.
• Proficiency in relevant kitchen management software is an advantage.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience and expertise.
• Performance-based bonus incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, culinary training, and career advancement.
• Accommodation assistance or a housing allowance may be considered.
• Subsidized meals while on duty.
• A dynamic and creative work environment within a renowned establishment in Mossel Bay.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Potential to participate in food festivals and culinary competitions.