Relief Catering Manager at EnableSA (Pty) Ltd

EnableSA Recruitment; Riebeek East; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering company is seeking an experienced Regional Head Chef to manage a dynamic team in Grahamstown. You will oversee multiple kitchens, drive high standards in food quality and safety, and develop event menus that cater to client preferences. The role demands strong leadership and culinary skills, offering competitive salary and benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary above market rates

Potential annual salary increases and bonuses

Retirement, death and funeral benefits

Some school holidays off

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Head Chef in contract catering or high-volume environments.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Experience in menu costing and budget management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of 7 Function Chefs.
• Oversee operations for 12 kitchens across multiple locations.
• Manage financial aspects of the Coffee Shop including budgeting and cash-ups.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational

Communication

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts or equivalent

Job description

Our client is seeking an experienced Regional Head Chef to join the Grahamstown team,

• Lead and manage a team of 7 Function Chefs, ensuring effective roster scheduling, supervision, staff development and training requiring excellent planning and organizing from your side at all times.
  
• Oversee operations for 12 kitchens across multiple locations, ensuring high standards in food preparation, menu planning, and overall kitchen management.
  
• Oversee the day-to-day kitchen operations at the Coffee Shop.
  
• Manage all financial aspects of the Coffee Shop, including daily costings, budgeting, cash-ups and banking.
  
• Implement and uphold food safety, hygiene, and HACCP regulations.
  
• Planning, organize, and execute large-scale, upmarket events, including multiple three-course plated functions.
  
• Develop a diverse range of event menus (canapés, three-course, five-course plated, and buffet-style) tailored to client needs and preferences.
  
• Create and manage three-week term menus for schools and A La Carte menus for an upscale 180-seater restaurant.
  
• Draft, test and standardize recipes for 12 kitchens ensuring consistency and best quality.
  
• Run and manage the pass at our upmarket Restaurant during service time to ensure smooth kitchen operations during high-volume periods.
  
• Oversee inventory management including stock ordering & control.
  
• Manage cost control measures for all client functions.
  
• Coordinate the workflow across 12 catering kitchens/units and the 180-seater restaurant, ensuring smooth operations during busy service times.
  
• Conduct staff training in culinary techniques, health and safety procedures, and recipe execution.
  
• Prepare and attend client meetings, addressing function requests, food queries, and menu changes ensuring customer satisfaction.
  
• Manage work schedules for function Chefs ensuring efficient and timely food production.
  
• Chair disciplinary hearings and manage staff-related issues, fostering a productive and harmonious work environment.
  
• Traveling to Port Elizabeth and Queenstown to execute functions and events.
  

RequirementsProfessional culinary qualification (e.g., Diploma in Culinary Arts, City & Guilds, or equivalent).


Minimum of 5 years’ experience as a Head Chef in a contract catering, hotel, or high-volume environment.


Strong knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations.


Experience in menu costing, procurement, and budget management.


Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.


Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing client needs.


Ability to multi-task and keep a clear head during busy times.


Valid driver’s license, and own transport as you will be traveling between Grahamstown, Port Elizabeth & Queenstown frequently but based in Grahamstown 90% of the time.


Ensure flexibility in terms of working hours and days at all times.

BenefitsCompetitive salary above market rates.


Potential annual salary increases and year-end bonuses.


Retirement, death and funeral benefits.


Some of the school holidays off where applicable.


Opportunity to work with a supportive team in a dynamic environment.

Desired Skills:

• Grade 12
• Qualification
• Min 5 yrs exp

Desired Qualification Level:

• Diploma

About The Employer: