Head Chef - Events

Tanya Serra; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Tanya Serra in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa, seeks a Head Chef – Events to lead the culinary operation for a premier luxury hospitality and events destination. The role calls for mastery in banqueting, weddings and large-scale functions, plus a hands-on leadership style and a passion for seasonal, locally sourced cuisine.

You will drive menu development, ensure cost controls and maintain exceptional standards under pressure while mentoring a talented kitchen team.

Qualifications

• Proven Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in luxury hospitality/events.
• Extensive banqueting, weddings, functions & large-scale events experience.
• Outstanding culinary, plating and menu development skills.
• Hands-on leadership and team development abilities.
• Strong knowledge of food cost, stock control, procurement and kitchen operations.
• Ability to maintain high standards under pressure.
• Passion for seasonal, locally sourced and innovative cuisine.
• Excellent organizational, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Culinary qualification is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead culinary operation for a luxury hospitality and events destination.
• Develop and curate menus, supervise plating and presentation for large functions.
• Oversee kitchen operations, procurement and cost controls.
• Provide hands-on leadership, mentor staff and maintain high standards under pressure.

Skills

Head Chef experience

Banqueting & Weddings

Menu development

Team leadership

Food cost & procurement

Work under pressure

Seasonal & local cuisine

Organizational skills

Culinary qualification

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

CAREER OPPORTUNITY | HEAD CHEF – EVENTS

An exciting opportunity for an accomplished Head Chef – Events to lead the culinary operation for a prestigious luxury hospitality and events destination in the Cape Winelands.

What we’re looking for:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef within a high-end hospitality/events environment
• Strong experience in banqueting, weddings, functions & large-scale events
• Exceptional culinary, presentation & menu development skills
• Strong leadership ability with a hands‑on approach to team development
• Excellent knowledge of food cost, stock control, procurement & kitchen operations
• Ability to deliver consistently high standards under pressure
• Passion for seasonal, locally sourced & innovative cuisine
• Strong organisational, communication & problem-solving skills
• Relevant culinary qualification essential

This is an opportunity to lead from the front and create exceptional culinary experiences for memorable events. Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa.