Head Chef - Catering Operations

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Culinary direction growth

Modern kitchen facilities

Dynamic work atmosphere

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a talented Head Chef to lead the culinary team for catering operations in Tembisa. You will design innovative menus, ensure top quality, and manage the kitchen efficiently to meet diverse events.

The ideal candidate brings extensive head chef or sous chef experience in catering, strong leadership, and a passion for food innovation. You will shape the culinary identity and drive exceptional dining experiences for clients.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in catering or high-volume food service.
• Strong leadership and staff management capabilities.
• Proven ability to manage food costing and budgeting.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety standards and practices.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute creative menus for catering events, adapting to client preferences and dietary needs.
• Oversee kitchen operations including prep, cooking, plating, and presentation.
• Lead and train kitchen staff, set performance expectations, and foster a positive work environment.
• Control costs through inventory management, procurement, and waste reduction strategies.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the kitchen.
• Collaborate with catering management for seamless event execution and client satisfaction.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Culinary expertise

Menu design

Food cost management

Healthy & safety

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a talented and creative Head Chef to lead their culinary team for catering operations in Tembisa . This pivotal role involves designing innovative menus, ensuring the highest quality of food preparation, and managing the kitchen efficiently to meet the demands of diverse events. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for gastronomy, strong leadership capabilities, and a commitment to excellence in a fast-paced environment. You will be instrumental in shaping the culinary identity of our client's catering services and ensuring exceptional dining experiences for all clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute creative, high-quality menus for various catering events, adapting to client preferences and dietary needs.
• Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and presentation standards.
• Manage kitchen staff, providing training, setting performance expectations, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Control food costs through effective inventory management, procurement, and waste reduction strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the kitchen.
• Collaborate with the catering management team to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef, with a strong background in catering or high-volume food service.
• Demonstrated culinary expertise, creativity, and a passion for food innovation.
• Proven ability to manage and lead a kitchen team effectively.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory control, and budget management.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety standards and practices.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing event requirements.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to shape the culinary direction of a growing catering business.
• Access to modern kitchen facilities and equipment.
• A dynamic and collaborative work atmosphere.
• Potential for professional growth and culinary exploration.