Head Chef - Catering Division

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a talented Head Chef to lead its catering division, delivering exceptional dining experiences for a variety of events. You will shape menus, oversee kitchen operations, and mentor a team of chefs and staff, ensuring high standards of taste and presentation.

The ideal candidate holds a culinary degree, has proven leadership, and can manage food costs and inventory while maintaining strict food-safety compliance.

Qualifications

• Proven Head Chef or senior Sous Chef with catering experience.
• Culinary degree or equivalent qualification.
• Expertise in diverse cuisines and cooking techniques.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Food cost control and inventory management knowledge.
• Certification in food safety and handling mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Design menus that cater to diverse client needs and dietary restrictions.
• Oversee all kitchen operations from prep to plating.
• Manage inventory, orders, and food costs.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate with operations for seamless event execution.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Food cost control

Inventory management

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role Our client is seeking a talented and creative Head Chef to lead their esteemed catering division in Durban . This role is perfect for a culinary expert passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences for a variety of events. You will be responsible for menu development, kitchen management, quality control, and leading a team of skilled chefs and kitchen staff. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of diverse cuisines and the ability to execute complex dishes with precision and flair, ensuring that every meal served meets the highest standards of taste and presentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design innovative and appealing menus that cater to diverse client needs and dietary restrictions.
• Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating.
• Manage inventory, including ordering supplies and controlling food costs effectively.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate with the operations team to ensure seamless event execution from a culinary perspective.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or senior Sous Chef, preferably within the catering industry.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification.
• Expertise in various cuisines and cooking techniques.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of food cost control and inventory management.
• Certification in food safety and handling is mandatory.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and attractive benefits package.
• Opportunity to showcase culinary creativity and lead a respected kitchen team.
• Access to high-quality ingredients and state-of-the-art kitchen facilities in Durban .
• Professional development opportunities and potential for career growth.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment.