Head Chef - Coastal Events Catering

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Coastal catering exposure

Locally sourced ingredients

Professional development

Career growth

Relocation assistance

Supportive culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Head Chef for a premier coastal catering company in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will lead the culinary team, design menus, and uphold the highest standards of quality, safety, and presentation for weddings, corporate retreats, and private functions.

You will manage kitchen operations, train staff, control costs, and ensure consistent, memorable dining experiences against a sea-side backdrop.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of experience as a Chef, with at least 4 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role.
• Proven menu creation, food costing, and kitchen management expertise.
• Strong knowledge of seafood preparation and local South African produce.
• Proven leadership and ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Ability to work under pressure in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Culinary degree or equivalent qualification desirable.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends and public holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead culinary team in menu development using seasonal, local seafood.
• Oversee all food preparation, cooking, presentation for quality and consistency.
• Manage kitchen operations: scheduling, training, and performance evaluation.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and maintain supplier relationships.
• Enforce HACCP and hygiene standards across kitchen.
• Collaborate with events team to craft bespoke menus for clients.
• Ensure cleanliness and organized workflow in the kitchen.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and integrate them when appropriate.
• Manage kitchen equipment maintenance and facilities.
• Lead by example and foster a positive team culture.

Skills

Leadership

Menu creation

Food costing

Kitchen management

Food safety

Seafood expertise

Staff training

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Working under pressure

Flexible hours

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role Our client, a renowned catering company specializing in exclusive coastal events, is seeking an accomplished Head Chef to lead their culinary team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the gastronomic identity of high-end weddings, corporate retreats, and private functions against the stunning backdrop of the South African coast. You will be responsible for menu creation, kitchen management, staff training, and maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and safety. The ideal candidate possesses a strong creative flair, a deep understanding of seafood and local produce, and proven leadership skills. You must be adept at managing a fast-paced kitchen environment, controlling costs, and delivering memorable dining experiences. The beautiful coastal setting of Mossel Bay, Western Cape offers an inspiring environment for culinary innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in menu development, focusing on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, especially seafood.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure exceptional quality and consistency.
• Manage kitchen operations, including staff scheduling, training, and performance evaluation.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and maintain supplier relationships to ensure profitability and quality.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards (HACCP).
• Collaborate with the events team to create bespoke menus for clients and cater to special dietary requirements.
• Ensure efficient workflow and high standards of cleanliness and organization within the kitchen.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and innovations, incorporating them into menu offerings where appropriate.
• Manage kitchen equipment maintenance and ensure all facilities are in optimal working condition.
• Lead by example, fostering a positive and productive team environment.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of experience as a Chef, with at least 4 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role, preferably in a catering or fine dining establishment.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu creation, food costing, and kitchen management.
• Strong knowledge of seafood preparation and local South African produce.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Ability to work under pressure in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and problem‑solving skills.
• A passion for culinary excellence and creative presentation.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead culinary innovation in a unique coastal event setting.
• Access to premium, locally sourced ingredients.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Potential for career growth within a respected catering company.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• A supportive and creative work culture.
• The chance to create unforgettable dining experiences by the sea.