Head Chef

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Menu development

Training opportunities

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Head Chef to lead a dynamic culinary team in Johannesburg. You will oversee menu creation, food preparation, and ensure top-quality presentation while upholding hygiene standards, safety protocols, and guest satisfaction.

You will manage inventory and costs, mentor staff, and collaborate with events teams to deliver outstanding catering experiences in a fast-paced environment, driving creativity and consistency across daily operations and special events.

Qualifications

• Proven Head Chef or Sous Chef experience in high-volume catering or restaurant.
• Strong culinary skills across techniques and international cuisines.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
• Proficient in cost control, inventory management, and menu costing.
• Culinary qualifications or certifications desirable.
• Commitment to exceptional food quality and presentation.

Responsibilities

• Develop creative menus considering seasonal ingredients.
• Oversee kitchen operations from prep to presentation.
• Supervise and mentor kitchen staff.
• Control food costs via inventory management and waste reduction.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate with catering management to plan events and daily operations.

Skills

Leadership

Cost control

Inventory management

Menu costing

Culinary techniques

Food safety

Education

Culinary qualifications or certifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead their culinary team in Johannesburg . This pivotal role involves overseeing all aspects of the kitchen, from menu creation and food preparation to staff management and maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and quality. You will be instrumental in developing innovative dishes, managing inventory, and ensuring the smooth operation of a busy catering environment. This is an exciting opportunity for a culinary artist to make a significant impact, driving creativity and excellence in a dynamic setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop creative and appealing menus, considering seasonal ingredients and client preferences.
• Manage all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation, to impeccable standards.
• Supervise, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and efficient team environment.
• Control food costs through effective inventory management, ordering, and waste reduction strategies.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the kitchen.
• Collaborate with the catering management team to plan and execute successful events and daily operations.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a high-volume catering or restaurant environment.
• Strong culinary skills with a deep understanding of various cooking techniques and international cuisines.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with a track record of motivating staff.
• Proficiency in cost control, inventory management, and menu costing.
• Relevant culinary qualifications or certifications are highly desirable.
• A commitment to maintaining exceptional food quality and presentation.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary.
• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.
• Opportunity for creative input and menu development.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A dynamic and rewarding work environment in Johannesburg .