Head Chef - Banqueting & Events

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Access to excellent facilities

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Chef to lead its banqueting and events culinary division in Mahikeng, North West. You will drive menu development, oversee high-volume service, and mentor a skilled kitchen brigade to deliver outstanding culinary experiences for diverse events.

The role requires a proven track record in large-scale events, strong leadership, and a passion for culinary excellence in a dynamic venue. Flexibility for extended hours is expected.

Qualifications

• Extensive leadership experience in high-volume banqueting and events.
• Strong culinary foundation with proven menu development skills.
• Excellent cost control, inventory management and supplier relations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the banqueting and events kitchen operations.
• Develop creative, seasonal, and cost-effective menus for conferences, weddings, and galas.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure top quality and consistency.
• Mentor the kitchen brigade, fostering a positive, professional work environment.
• Enforce strict food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and optimize procurement processes.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to deliver exceptional culinary experiences.
• Maintain and service kitchen equipment and lead regular team meetings and training.
• Stay updated on industry trends and culinary innovations.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen management

Menu development

Cost control

Staff mentorship

Food safety HACCP

Culinary expertise

Communication

Education

Formal culinary qualifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious event venue located in Mahikeng, North West , is seeking an accomplished and visionary Head Chef to lead their banqueting and events culinary division. This is a leadership role requiring exceptional culinary expertise, creativity, and strong management skills. The Head Chef will be responsible for developing innovative menus, managing a high-performing kitchen brigade, ensuring consistent quality and presentation across all events, and controlling food costs effectively. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in high-volume banqueting and event catering, a passion for culinary excellence, and the ability to thrive in a demanding and dynamic environment. This is a premier opportunity to make a significant impact on the culinary reputation of a leading event destination in Mahikeng, North West .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the banqueting and events kitchen operations.
• Develop creative, seasonal, and cost-effective menus for a wide range of events, including conferences, weddings, and galas.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation, ensuring the highest standards of quality and consistency.
• Manage and mentor the kitchen brigade, fostering a positive, professional, and productive work environment.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and optimize procurement processes.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to understand client needs and deliver exceptional culinary experiences.
• Maintain and manage kitchen equipment, ensuring it is in good working order and properly maintained.
• Conduct regular team meetings and training sessions.
• Stay updated on industry trends and culinary innovations.

Requirements

• Extensive experience (minimum 7 years) as a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef, with a significant focus on banqueting and large-scale events.
• Formal culinary qualifications from a recognized institution are highly desirable.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage food costs, inventory, and supplier relationships effectively.
• Strong knowledge of various international cuisines and modern culinary techniques.
• Proficiency in HACCP and other food safety management systems.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple events simultaneously, and meet tight deadlines.
• Creative flair and a passion for delivering outstanding food experiences.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required for events in Mahikeng, North West .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, along with performance-based bonuses and opportunities for professional development.
• You will be joining a dynamic and prestigious venue in Mahikeng, North West , with access to excellent facilities and a supportive management team.
• This role offers the chance to lead a talented culinary team and shape the future of event catering in the region.