Head Chef - Premium Catering Services

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Annual bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Head Chef in Johannesburg to lead a dynamic culinary team for a prestigious catering client. The role focuses on developing diverse menus, ensuring top-quality presentations, and maintaining flawless service during high-profile events.

You will mentor sous chefs and kitchen staff, manage food costs, uphold HACCP standards, and coordinate with event planners to deliver exceptional dining experiences across Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years in professional kitchens with 3+ years in Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef roles, preferably in catering.
• Formal culinary training and certification from a recognized institution.
• Strong menu engineering, cost control, and kitchen management software proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Develop, plan, and execute diverse menus meeting client expectations and dietary requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen staff.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety per health regulations and company policies.
• Manage inventory, control food costs, and optimize procurement to ensure profitability and reduce waste.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to ensure seamless culinary execution for all catered functions.
• Oversee catering setup and breakdown across venues with consistent presentation standards.

Skills

Leadership

Menu engineering

Cost control

Food safety

Communication

Education

Culinary diploma/certification

Tools

Kitchen management software

Inventory management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering company based in Johannesburg, is seeking an experienced and innovative Head Chef to lead their culinary team. This pivotal role involves overseeing all aspects of food preparation and presentation for a wide range of high-profile events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale banquets. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of diverse culinary styles, a passion for quality ingredients, and the ability to manage a busy kitchen environment with precision and creativity. You will be instrumental in maintaining and elevating the company's reputation for exceptional cuisine and impeccable service delivery across the Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, plan, and execute diverse menus that meet client expectations and dietary requirements, ensuring creativity and seasonal relevance.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen assistants, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Maintain stringent standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety in compliance with all health regulations and company policies.
• Manage inventory, control food costs, and optimize procurement of ingredients to ensure profitability and minimize waste.
• Collaborate closely with the event planning team to ensure seamless execution of culinary aspects for all catered functions, including tastings and client consultations.
• Oversee the setup and breakdown of catering operations at various venues, ensuring presentation standards are consistently met.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in professional kitchens, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role, preferably within the catering industry.
• Formal culinary training and certification from a recognized institution.
• Proven expertise in menu engineering, cost control, and kitchen management software.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively manage a diverse team and liaise with clients.
• Strong understanding of food safety standards, HACCP principles, and health regulations relevant to Johannesburg.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary package commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses and opportunities for professional development.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.The text ends with
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