Head Chef - Boutique Catering Services

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, seeks a creative Head Chef to lead a boutique catering kitchen for weddings, corporate functions and private parties. You will conceptualize menus, oversee food preparation, and ensure top-tier presentation, hygiene and service standards.

You will manage a skilled kitchen brigade, develop seasonal menus, control costs, train staff, and partner with event teams to craft memorable dining experiences in a fast-paced setting; flexibility to work evenings and

Qualifications

• 7+ years culinary experience with 3+ years in Head Chef or Sous Chef in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Culinary degree or equivalent certification desirable.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a kitchen team.
• Strong knife skills and mastery of cooking techniques.
• Knowledge of food costing, inventory management, and menu engineering.
• Understanding of health, safety regulations.
• Ability to work under pressure across multiple events.
• Flexible to work evenings, weekends, holidays.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations for catering events.
• Develop seasonal menus reflecting current trends and dietary needs.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff.
• Ensure HACCP and hygiene standards.
• Control costs through inventory and waste reduction.
• Collaborate with catering manager for event proposals.
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and equipment.
• Source high-quality ingredients from local suppliers.
• Conduct quality checks and tastings for consistency.
• Stay updated with culinary techniques and trends.

Skills

Leadership

Knife skills

Menu engineering

Food costing

Health and safety knowledge

Communication

Pressure management

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly regarded boutique catering company operating in the scenic region of George , Western Cape, is actively searching for a creative and technically skilled Head Chef. This role is ideal for a culinary artist who thrives in a fast-paced environment and possesses a keen eye for detail. The Head Chef will be responsible for conceptualizing, preparing, and executing exquisite culinary creations for a variety of high-end events, including weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. You will lead a talented kitchen brigade, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the culinary direction of a growing business and contribute to its reputation for exceptional dining experiences in the Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, for all catering events.
• Develop innovative and seasonal menus that reflect current culinary trends and cater to diverse client preferences, including specific dietary requirements.
• Manage, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and efficient team environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP guidelines).
• Control food costs through effective inventory management, ordering, and waste reduction strategies.
• Collaborate with the catering manager and sales team to provide culinary input for event proposals and client consultations.
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, including all equipment and storage areas.
• Source high-quality ingredients, building relationships with local suppliers where possible.
• Conduct regular quality checks and taste panels to ensure consistency and excellence in all dishes.
• Stay updated on culinary techniques, industry trends, and competitor offerings.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Sous Chef role within a high-volume catering or fine dining establishment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a kitchen team effectively.
• Exceptional knife skills and a deep understanding of various cooking techniques.
• Strong knowledge of food costing, inventory management, and menu engineering.
• Excellent understanding of health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Creative flair and a passion for innovative cuisine and presentation.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events simultaneously.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

Our client is pleased to offer a competitive remuneration package for this Head Chef position, reflecting your expertise and contribution. The role comes with significant creative freedom and the opportunity to make a substantial impact on the company's culinary identity. You will enjoy working in a supportive environment that values talent and dedication. Further benefits include opportunities for professional development, participation in culinary competitions, and the chance to work with premium ingredients in the beautiful George region. Join a team committed to culinary excellence and creating memorable dining experiences.