Head Chef - Luxury Event Catering and Fine Dining

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive annual package

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an exceptionally talented Executive Catering Chef to lead culinary operations for high-end events in Pietermaritzburg. You will design innovative menus, manage a dynamic kitchen team, and uphold top standards of food quality and presentation.

The role requires 5–7 years in executive/head chef positions, a culinary degree, and proficiency in HACCP, with a strong emphasis on leadership and cost control.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years in executive/head chef roles in catering or hospitality.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification.
• Proven expertise across fine dining and event catering.
• Strong leadership, team management and communication skills.
• Knowledge of food costing, inventory and budget control.
• Proficient in HACCP and food safety management systems.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Understanding of Pietermaritzburg catering market advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and execute innovative event menus for weddings, corporate functions and private parties.
• Lead, train and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance team.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation and presentation, ensuring quality and consistency.
• Manage inventory, control food costs, and optimize procurement for profitability.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to translate client needs into culinary reality.
• Maintain strict health, safety and sanitation standards in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures for kitchen operations.
• Conduct regular quality checks and taste panels to guarantee top culinary standards.

Skills

Leadership

Menu design

Food cost control

Team management

Communication

Creativity

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an exceptionally talented Executive Catering Chef to lead culinary operations for high-end events in Pietermaritzburg. You will design innovative menus, manage a dynamic kitchen team, and uphold top standards of food quality and presentation.

The role requires 5–7 years in executive/head chef positions, a culinary degree, and proficiency in HACCP, with a strong emphasis on leadership and cost control.