Kitchen Manager

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Dynamic team environment

Access to quality ingredients

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Kitchen Manager to oversee operations in Queenstown. You will lead high-volume catering, ensuring exceptional food quality, safety and hygiene while managing staff and costs.

The role requires strong leadership, culinary expertise, inventory control and the ability to coordinate with events and management teams for successful dining experiences.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading kitchen operations in busy catering or restaurant settings.
• Strong leadership and the ability to motivate a team.
• In-depth knowledge of food preparation techniques, culinary trends and costing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations including food prep, cooking and service.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff to maintain a positive work environment.
• Enforce food safety, hygiene and sanitation standards (HACCP).
• Manage inventory: stock control, ordering, waste minimization.
• Control food and labor costs to meet profitability targets.
• Refine kitchen processes to improve efficiency and quality.
• Ensure equipment is well-maintained and functional.
• Collaborate with management to plan menus and events.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and audits.
• Troubleshoot kitchen-related issues promptly.

Skills

Kitchen management

Leadership

Food safety (HACCP)

Inventory management

Education

Culinary qualifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent catering service known for its quality and innovation, is seeking an experienced Kitchen Manager to oversee operations in **Queenstown**. This pivotal role demands a leader with a strong background in food preparation, inventory management, and team leadership within a high-volume catering environment. You will be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of food quality, safety, and hygiene, while also managing kitchen staff, controlling costs, and ensuring efficient operational workflows. This is an exceptional opportunity for a dedicated professional to take charge of a busy kitchen and contribute significantly to the success of a respected catering company in **Queenstown**.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and service.
• Manage, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards (e.g., HACCP).
• Manage inventory, including stock control, ordering of supplies, and minimizing waste.
• Control food costs and labor costs to ensure profitability targets are met.
• Develop and refine kitchen processes to improve efficiency and quality.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is well-maintained and in good working order.
• Collaborate with the catering management team to plan menus and execute events effectively.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and audits.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any kitchen-related issues promptly.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Kitchen Manager, Head Chef, or Sous Chef in a busy catering or restaurant setting.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate staff.
• In-depth knowledge of food preparation techniques, culinary trends, and costing.
• Comprehensive understanding of health, safety, and sanitation regulations (HACCP).
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Experience with inventory management and cost control.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing demands in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility to work varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required for events in **Queenstown**.
• Relevant culinary qualifications are highly desirable.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to lead a kitchen in a reputable catering organization.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Be part of a dynamic team focused on culinary excellence in **Queenstown**.
• Access to quality ingredients and modern kitchen facilities.
• Potential for career advancement within the company.