Head Chef - Boutique Catering

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 540,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance incentives

Professional growth

Premium ingredients

Health & wellness programmes

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Chef in Centurion, Gauteng to lead a boutique catering operation. This hands-on role demands creative, technically skilled leadership to deliver high-quality, bespoke menus for events and ensure exceptional service.

You will manage all food production, menu development, costing, and kitchen budgeting while mentoring a team, maintaining HACCP compliance, and sourcing premium local ingredients. Based in Centurion, the role offers growth with a prestigious brand.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role.
• Expertise in menu development, food costing, and kitchen budget management.
• Exceptional culinary skills, creativity, and presentation.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience managing kitchen teams.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills under pressure.
• Proficiency in inventory management and ordering systems.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends and public holidays.
• Culinary degree or equivalent certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute innovative menus for events based on seasonality and client preferences.
• Manage all kitchen operations: prep, cooking, plating, presentation.
• Lead, mentor, and train kitchen staff to maintain high performance.
• Ensure strict food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
• Control food costs via inventory, portion control, and waste reduction.
• Source ingredients from reputable suppliers and build relationships.
• Collaborate with catering management on event logistics and client consultations.
• Maintain clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen and equipment.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and introduce new ideas.
• Plan staffing levels and schedules to meet demand.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Budget management

Food safety

Inventory management

Team training

Time management

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly regarded boutique catering service in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking an exceptional Head Chef to lead their culinary operations. This is a hands‑on role for a creative and technically skilled chef who is passionate about delivering innovative, high‑quality cuisine for bespoke events. You will be responsible for the entire food production process, from menu conceptualisation and development to kitchen management and team leadership. The ideal candidate possesses a refined palate, a deep understanding of diverse culinary techniques, and a commitment to sourcing the finest local ingredients. This position requires a leader who can inspire a kitchen team, maintain impeccable standards of hygiene and organisation, and consistently exceed client expectations. Your culinary vision will be central to the success and continued growth of our client's prestigious brand in Centurion and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute innovative, high‑quality menus for a range of events, considering seasonal availability and client preferences.
• Manage all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and presentation.
• Lead, mentor, and train kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP).
• Control food costs through effective inventory management, portion control, and waste reduction strategies.
• Source high‑quality ingredients from reputable suppliers, building strong supplier relationships.
• Collaborate with the catering management team to plan event logistics and client consultations.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure a clean, organised, and safe working environment.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends and techniques, introducing new ideas and concepts.
• Manage kitchen staffing levels and schedules to meet operational demands efficiently.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role, preferably in a high‑end catering or fine dining establishment.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, food costing, and kitchen budget management.
• Exceptional culinary skills, creativity, and a passion for food quality and presentation.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience in managing and motivating kitchen teams.
• In‑depth knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Excellent organisational and time‑management skills, with the ability to work under pressure.
• Proficiency in inventory management and ordering systems.
• Flexibility to work demanding hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification is highly preferred.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Centurion, Gauteng.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes performance‑based incentives and opportunities for significant professional growth.
• You will be joining a highly respected catering company with a reputation for culinary excellence.
• The role provides creative freedom and the chance to work with premium ingredients.
• Ongoing professional development and training are provided.
• Access to health and wellness programmes is available.
• This is a prime opportunity to lead a talented kitchen team and make a substantial impact on the culinary landscape in Gauteng.