Head Catering Chef - Upington Events

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Lead kitchen team

Menu design freedom

Modern kitchen facilities

Staff meals

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, South Africa, is seeking an experienced Head Catering Chef to lead all culinary operations from menu development to kitchen management and staff supervision.

You will craft innovative menus for corporate events, weddings and private functions across the Northern Cape, ensure HACCP and food safety standards, manage inventory and costs, and mentor a passionate kitchen team in a fast-paced, hands-on role. Travel to event sites is required.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years progressive culinary experience in catering/hospitality.
• 2–3 years in Head Chef or Exec Sous Chef.
• Culinary degree or certification.
• Proficiency in HACCP and food safety.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple events and teams.
• Driver's license and reliable transport.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen operations: menu planning, prep, plating.
• Develop innovative menus for diverse events in Upington.
• Train, schedule and evaluate kitchen staff.
• Ensure strict food safety, hygiene, sanitation standards.
• Manage inventory, procurement and cost control.
• Collaborate with events team to meet culinary needs.
• Maintain clean, organized kitchen and equipment.
• Conduct quality checks on dishes.
• Address issues at kitchen or event sites.
• Foster positive kitchen team dynamics.

Skills

Leadership

Team Building

Communication

Under Pressure

Flexible Hours

Event Catering

Cost Control

Inventory Management

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event catering service renowned for its exceptional quality and diverse offerings in the Upington, Northern Cape region, is seeking an experienced and creative Head Catering Chef. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing all culinary operations, from menu development and food preparation to kitchen management and staff supervision. The ideal candidate will have a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences, a strong understanding of food safety and hygiene, and the ability to lead and inspire a kitchen team. You will be instrumental in shaping the culinary direction of the company, developing innovative menus that cater to a wide range of events, including corporate functions, weddings, and private parties throughout the Northern Cape. This role requires a hands-on approach, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple culinary projects simultaneously. The position is based at our client's central kitchen facility in Upington, with frequent travel to event sites. We are committed to culinary excellence and are looking for a passionate professional to drive our kitchen operations forward.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the kitchen, including menu planning, food preparation, and presentation.
• Develop innovative and appealing menus that reflect current culinary trends and seasonal ingredients, catering to diverse client needs and events in Upington.
• Oversee the training, scheduling, and performance management of kitchen staff.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and cost control for food and supplies to maintain profitability.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to ensure culinary requirements are met for all events.
• Maintain equipment and ensure a clean and organized kitchen environment.
• Conduct regular quality control checks on all dishes prepared.
• Respond effectively to any issues that arise in the kitchen or at event sites.
• Foster a positive and collaborative working environment for the kitchen team.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 2-3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role, preferably in catering or high-volume hospitality in the Northern Cape.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification from a recognized institution.
• Proven expertise in menu development, costing, and kitchen management.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple events simultaneously.
• Creative flair and a passion for culinary excellence and presentation.
• Experience with event catering logistics is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in inventory management and cost control techniques.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, essential for event catering in Upington.
• Valid driver's license and own reliable transport.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunity to lead a talented culinary team in a dynamic catering environment.
• Creative freedom in menu design and culinary innovation.
• Access to modern kitchen facilities and equipment.Potential for professional growth and development.
• Staff meals and discounts on company services.
• A chance to be a key player in the growing event scene in Upington and the surrounding Northern Cape.