Head Chef - Catering Operations

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Professional development

Culinary certifications

Prestigious events catering

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Head Chef to lead a high-volume catering kitchen in Centurion. You will shape menus, direct day-to-day operations, and ensure exceptional quality across events.

In this role you will manage inventory, control costs, mentor staff, enforce HACCP and food safety standards, and collaborate with event teams to tailor menus to client needs. A culinary degree or apprenticeship is highly regarded.

Qualifications

• Experience leading high-volume catering operations and menus.
• Strong leadership and cost management capabilities.
• Solid knowledge of HACCP and food safety standards.
• Culinary degree or recognised apprenticeship preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead menu creation and development for events.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations for catered events.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and cost control.
• Train, mentor, and supervise kitchen staff.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen management

Cost control

Culinary techniques

Food safety

HACCP

Communication

Education

Culinary degree

Tools

Inventory software

Procurement systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a passionate and creative Head Chef to lead their catering kitchen operations in Centurion. This pivotal role demands culinary excellence, strong kitchen management skills, and the ability to inspire a team to produce exceptional dishes for a wide array of events. You will be instrumental in menu development, quality control, and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, ensuring our catering services are renowned for their taste and presentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead menu creation and development, incorporating seasonal ingredients and innovative culinary trends.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating for all catered events.
• Manage inventory, procurement of ingredients, and cost control to ensure profitability.
• Train, mentor, and supervise kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance team culture.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and workplace health regulations.
• Collaborate with the catering management team to plan event logistics and client-specific menu requirements.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef, preferably within a high-volume catering or hospitality environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in various culinary techniques and international cuisines.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Excellent understanding of kitchen financial management, including budgeting and cost control.
• Proficiency in food safety standards and HACCP principles.
• Culinary degree or recognized apprenticeship is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary and potential for discretionary bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Opportunities for creative culinary expression and menu innovation in Gauteng.
• Professional development funding and support for culinary certifications.
• A dynamic work environment with the chance to cater prestigious events.