Head Chef, Fine-Dining Event Catering

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary commensurate with experience

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Professional development and growth

Collaborative and supportive work

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg seeks an Executive Catering Chef to lead culinary operations for high-end events. This pivotal role combines creative menu design, precise kitchen leadership, and a passion for exceptional presentation to create unforgettable experiences for discerning clients.

You will manage a dynamic kitchen team, control food costs, ensure HACCP compliance, and collaborate with event planners to translate client visions into exquisite dishes while maintaining the highest

Qualifications

• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive experience in executive/head chef roles in catering or hospitality.
• Culinary degree or equivalent certification from a recognized institution.
• Proven expertise across diverse culinary styles, with emphasis on fine dining and events.
• Leadership, team management, and strong communication skills.
• Strong food costing, inventory management, and budget control.
• Proficiency in HACCP and food safety management.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced setting.
• Understanding of Pietermaritzburg catering market is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and design innovative menus for weddings, corporate events and private parties.
• Lead, train, and mentor the kitchen team for high performance.
• Oversee food prep, cooking, and presentation for consistency and quality.
• Manage inventory, cost control, and procurement to ensure profitability.
• Collaborate with event planning to translate client needs into dishes.
• Maintain HACCP and health/safety standards in a busy kitchen.
• Develop standard operating procedures for kitchen ops.

Skills

Executive leadership

Fine dining

Menu design

Food costing

HACCP & food safety

Team management

Communication

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg seeks an Executive Catering Chef to lead culinary operations for high-end events. This pivotal role combines creative menu design, precise kitchen leadership, and a passion for exceptional presentation to create unforgettable experiences for discerning clients.

You will manage a dynamic kitchen team, control food costs, ensure HACCP compliance, and collaborate with event planners to translate client visions into exquisite dishes while maintaining the highest