Head Chef - Boutique Catering Lead (Centurion)

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

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.