Head Chef - Large Scale Events

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses or incentives

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Professional development

Collaborative work culture

Prestigious events

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, South Africa seeks a Head Chef to lead culinary direction for large-scale events. You will oversee menu creation, staff leadership, inventory, and cost management, ensuring top quality and safety.

The role requires a minimum of 7 years in progressive culinary roles, with at least 3 years as Head Chef or Exec Sous Chef, and a formal culinary qualification. Must relocate to East London.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive culinary experience with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role, managing large-scale catering operations.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution is essential.
• Extensive experience in menu development, costing, and high-volume food production.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities with the capacity to motivate and inspire.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
• Strong financial acumen and budget management/cost-control experience.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Based in or willing to relocate to East London, South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations for large-scale events, ensuring efficiency and high quality.
• Develop creative, seasonal, and cost-effective menus for high guest volumes.
• Supervise, train, and mentor the kitchen brigade.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation with consistency and quality.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships for cost control.
• Enforce strict food safety and sanitation protocols in line with regulations.
• Control food costs and labor expenses to maximize profitability.
• Collaborate with events and management teams to ensure successful executions.
• Conduct regular quality checks and tastings to maintain excellence.
• Maintain a safe and well-equipped kitchen environment.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budgeting

Cost control

Menu development

Food safety

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Communication

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading and dynamic catering company in East London , is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Head Chef to lead the culinary direction for large-scale events. This senior role demands exceptional leadership, culinary expertise, and a proven ability to manage high-volume food production for significant functions, including corporate galas, weddings, and festivals. The Head Chef will be responsible for menu creation, kitchen staff management, inventory control, cost management, and upholding the highest standards of food quality, safety, and presentation. We are looking for a passionate culinary artist who can inspire a team, drive creativity, and ensure seamless execution of culinary services that delight clients and guests. This is a pivotal opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact within a reputable organization in East London , contributing to memorable culinary experiences across a diverse range of prestigious events. If you possess a strong culinary background and a talent for leading a kitchen in a demanding, fast-paced environment, this role is ideally suited for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the kitchen operations for large-scale events, ensuring efficiency and quality.
• Develop creative, seasonal, and cost-effective menus suitable for a high volume of guests.
• Supervise, train, and mentor the kitchen brigade, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation, ensuring consistency and adherence to quality standards.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships to ensure the availability of high-quality ingredients at optimal costs.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, hygiene, and sanitation protocols, complying with all relevant regulations.
• Control food costs and labor expenses, implementing strategies to maximize profitability without compromising quality.
• Collaborate closely with the events and management teams to understand client needs and ensure successful event execution.
• Conduct regular quality checks and taste panels to maintain culinary excellence.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure a safe working environment for all staff.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role, specifically managing large-scale catering operations.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution is essential.
• Extensive experience in menu development, costing, and large-volume food production.
• Proven leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and inspire.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budget management and cost control.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to perform well under pressure and adapt to the dynamic demands of the event industry.
• A passion for culinary innovation and a commitment to exceptional dining experiences.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to East London .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential performance bonuses.
• Opportunity to lead culinary operations for significant events in East London .
• Work with a reputable and innovative catering company.
• Access to state-of-the-art kitchen facilities.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• A collaborative and dynamic work culture.
• Contribution to memorable event experiences.