Lead Catering Chef - Creative Menus & Event Excellence

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 560,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing assistance

Staff meals

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Lead Catering Chef in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role focuses on menu development, kitchen operations, staff supervision and maintaining top food safety standards.

You will lead a culinary team, design cost-efficient menus for events, and collaborate with catering management to deliver exceptional dining experiences. The ideal candidate has proven leadership in high-paced events, strong cost control skills, and a passion for quality food.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head/Executive Chef or Lead Catering Chef in events/hospitality.
• Strong ability to design creative, cost-effective menus.
• Solid leadership and team management skills; performance coaching.
• Deep knowledge of food safety, sanitation, HACCP standards.
• Experience with inventory control, stock management, and food costing.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the catering kitchen team to drive excellence.
• Develop creative menus for diverse events with seasonal ingredients.
• Oversee kitchen operations including prep, cooking and plating.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and control food costs.
• Collaborate with events team to align culinary with client expectations.
• Train kitchen staff on techniques, safety, and service standards.
• Maintain a safe, organized kitchen and equipment.
• Stay updated on culinary trends to keep menus fresh.

Skills

Leadership

Menu design

Food safety

Cost control

Team mentoring

Operational planning

Education

Culinary qualification

Tools

Inventory management

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Lead Catering Chef in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role focuses on menu development, kitchen operations, staff supervision and maintaining top food safety standards.

You will lead a culinary team, design cost-efficient menus for events, and collaborate with catering management to deliver exceptional dining experiences. The ideal candidate has proven leadership in high-paced events, strong cost control skills, and a passion for quality food.