Head Chef - Upscale Catering

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium ingredients and facilities

Professional development opportunities

Dynamic work environment with events

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead their prestigious catering division. You will oversee all culinary operations, from menu development and food preparation to team management and quality control for high-profile events.

This role requires a strong portfolio, expertise in HACCP, budgeting, and outstanding leadership. You will shape the brand's culinary excellence, mentor the kitchen brigade, and ensure flawless execution for diverse client briefs.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef.
• Portfolio showcasing diverse culinary skills and menu planning.
• Expertise in food safety regulations and HACCP.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage budgets and control food costs.
• Culinary degree or equivalent qualification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, create, and cost menus for catering events.
• Manage and mentor kitchen team.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation.
• Enforce food safety and hygiene standards.
• Manage inventory and control food costs.
• Collaborate with events team to meet client requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Food safety HACCP

Budget control

Communication

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and innovative Head Chef to lead their prestigious catering division in Johannesburg . This pivotal role involves overseeing all culinary operations, from menu development and food preparation to team management and quality control for high-profile events. You will be instrumental in maintaining the exceptional standards our client is known for, driving culinary excellence, and ensuring seamless execution of catering services for a diverse clientele. This is an outstanding opportunity for a passionate chef to make a significant impact in a dynamic and fast-paced industry, working within a company that values creativity, precision, and client satisfaction above all else.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, create, and cost innovative and appealing menus for various catering events, considering client briefs and seasonal availability.
• Manage and mentor the kitchen brigade, fostering a collaborative and efficient working environment.
• Oversee all food preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure the highest quality and consistency.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety and hygiene standards across all kitchen operations.
• Manage kitchen inventory, control food costs, and optimize resource utilization.
• Collaborate with the events team to ensure all culinary aspects meet client expectations and event requirements.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume catering or fine dining establishment.
• A strong portfolio showcasing diverse culinary skills and creative menu planning.
• Expertise in food safety regulations and HACCP principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage budgets and control food costs effectively.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead a talented culinary team and shape a renowned catering brand.
• Access to premium ingredients and state-of-the-art kitchen facilities in Johannesburg .
• Professional development opportunities and potential for career advancement.
• A dynamic work environment with opportunities to cater for exclusive events.