Head Chef — Premier Event Catering Visionary

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Incentives based on performance

Culinary innovation opportunities

Relocation assistance considered

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Head Chef - Event Catering to lead the culinary team for Pretoria-based events. You will conceptualize and present menus, manage high-volume food production, and drive innovation while upholding quality and consistency.

The role requires strong leadership, advanced culinary skills, and a proven ability to manage costs and staff under pressure. A formal culinary qualification and HACCP knowledge are essential.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in professional kitchens, with at least 3 years in Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role in catering or high-volume settings.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Exceptional culinary skills and passion for high-quality dishes.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a kitchen team effectively.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory management, and financial control.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety and HACCP standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the kitchen brigade for all catering events in Pretoria.
• Develop creative and appealing menus for diverse tastes and dietary requirements.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation and presentation to high standards.
• Manage kitchen inventory, ordering, stock control, and waste minimization.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene and sanitation regulations.
• Train, mentor and develop junior kitchen staff.
• Collaborate with catering management on event planning and execution.
• Control food costs and maintain profitability within kitchen operations.
• Innovate and stay abreast of current culinary trends and techniques.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Cost control

HACCP knowledge

Staff training

Diverse cuisines

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Head Chef - Event Catering to lead the culinary team for Pretoria-based events. You will conceptualize and present menus, manage high-volume food production, and drive innovation while upholding quality and consistency.

The role requires strong leadership, advanced culinary skills, and a proven ability to manage costs and staff under pressure. A formal culinary qualification and HACCP knowledge are essential.