Lead Pastry Chef: Dessert Innovation & Team Leadership

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 750,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff discounts on dining

Professional development

Modern kitchen facilities

Growth opportunities

Creative work environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking an exceptionally talented Head Pastry Chef to lead the pastry division. You will craft exquisite desserts, baked goods, and confectionery, oversee menu conception, recipe development, and full production, while mentoring a pastry team and maintaining the highest standards.

The role requires 5+ years in pastry with at least 2 years in leadership, strong food-cost discipline, and a passion for creative presentation in a fast-paced kitchen.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in a pastry chef role, with at least 2 years in a leadership capacity.
• Formal culinary or pastry arts qualification from a reputable institution.
• Proven expertise in baking, chocolate work, sugar craft, and plated desserts.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory management, and budget control.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to manage under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Experience in Durban hospitality scene is a plus.
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead the pastry section, including menu development, recipe creation, and execution of all pastry, dessert, and baked goods.
• Ensure consistent quality, taste, and presentation of all pastry items produced, meeting the highest standards.
• Manage inventory and ordering for the pastry department, controlling costs and minimizing waste.
• Supervise, train, and mentor junior pastry chefs and kitchen assistants, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team.
• Maintain strict hygiene, sanitation, and safety standards within the pastry kitchen.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and F&B management on menu planning and special events.
• Develop seasonal specials and innovative dessert offerings to enhance the overall dining experience.
• Manage pastry production schedules to ensure timely preparation and availability of all items.
• Stay updated on the latest pastry trends, techniques, and ingredients globally.
• Conduct quality checks and taste tests regularly.

Skills

Leadership

Pastry techniques

Menu development

Cost control

Team training

Quality assurance

Education

Culinary/Pastry Arts qualification

Job description

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking an exceptionally talented Head Pastry Chef to lead the pastry division. You will craft exquisite desserts, baked goods, and confectionery, oversee menu conception, recipe development, and full production, while mentoring a pastry team and maintaining the highest standards.

The role requires 5+ years in pastry with at least 2 years in leadership, strong food-cost discipline, and a passion for creative presentation in a fast-paced kitchen.