Head Catering Chef — Cape Town Creative Kitchen Leader

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Medical aid

Career growth opportunities

Dynamic team environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Head Catering Chef in Cape Town to lead culinary operations for the coastal division. Drive menus, train the kitchen team, and ensure exceptional food quality for intimate gatherings to large-scale functions.

Embrace innovation, maintain top hygiene standards, and manage budgets while delivering Cape Town’s vibrant Western Cape cuisine. You will shape the future of our catering offerings with creative freedom and influence, working in a leadership role within

Qualifications

• 7+ years of professional culinary experience, with leadership roles in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Proven expertise in menu creation, food styling, and culinary presentation.
• Strong leadership, team development, and cross-functional collaboration.
• In-depth knowledge of HACCP, food safety, inventory control, and cost management.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute innovative menus for catering events.
• Lead, train, and mentor the kitchen brigade to maintain high standards.
• Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations, quality, and presentation.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships for cost efficiency.
• Ensure hygiene, sanitation, and regulatory compliance in all activities.
• Collaborate with management to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.
• Manage budgets, food costs, labor, and equipment maintenance.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and apply best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Menu creation

Food styling

Culinary presentation

HACCP

Communication

Pressure management

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Head Catering Chef in Cape Town to lead culinary operations for the coastal division. Drive menus, train the kitchen team, and ensure exceptional food quality for intimate gatherings to large-scale functions.

Embrace innovation, maintain top hygiene standards, and manage budgets while delivering Cape Town’s vibrant Western Cape cuisine. You will shape the future of our catering offerings with creative freedom and influence, working in a leadership role within