Head Chef - Banqueting and Events

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive annual salary

Professional development opportunities

Dynamic work environment

Career advancement potential

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Head Chef in Midrand to lead the banqueting and events division, overseeing all culinary operations from kitchen to client. You will drive culinary innovation, ensure exceptional food quality, and deliver flawless experiences for weddings, corporate functions and large events.

The role requires proven leadership, formal culinary qualifications, expertise in a wide range of cuisines, and strong menu costing abilities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef in high-volume catering.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, international cuisines, and food presentation.
• Leadership and budget management experience.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and HACCP principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team to ensure efficient workflow and high morale.
• Design innovative, diverse event menus tailored to client needs and seasonal availability.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking and presentation to maintain quality and consistency.
• Manage kitchen inventory, supplier relations and food cost to optimize profitability.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene and sanitation regulations (HACCP).
• Collaborate with events planning to flawlessly execute culinary experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Menu design

Budget control

Food safety (HACCP)

Education

Formal culinary qualifications

Job description

Our client, a premier catering service provider in Midrand , is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead their banqueting and events division. This pivotal role involves overseeing all culinary operations for a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions and weddings. You will be instrumental in driving culinary innovation, maintaining exceptional food quality, and ensuring seamless execution from kitchen to client. This is a fantastic opportunity for a creative and highly organized culinary leader to make a significant impact within a dynamic and respected catering company.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team, including sous chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff, ensuring efficient workflow and high morale.
• Design innovative and diverse menus tailored to various events, client preferences, and seasonal availability, focusing on event catering excellence.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation, maintaining the highest standards of quality and consistency.
• Manage kitchen inventory, supplier relationships, and food cost control to optimize profitability without compromising quality.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP).
• Collaborate closely with the events planning team to understand client needs and execute flawless culinary experiences.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef, preferably within a high-volume catering or hospitality environment.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution.
• Exceptional knowledge of various cooking techniques, international cuisines, and food presentation styles.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in menu costing, inventory management, and budget control.
• Valid Food Handler's Permit and knowledge of health and safety regulations.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Opportunity to work with a diverse range of high-profile events.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment in Midrand .
• Potential for career advancement within a growing organization.