Remote Executive Chef - Global Culinary Operations

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef to lead global culinary operations in a remote-first role. The ideal candidate brings 10+ years of culinary experience with a strong background in senior leadership, menu development, and budget management.

You will manage a distributed team, drive innovative menus, ensure food safety, and collaborate with events teams to exceed client expectations on international catering projects.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive culinary experience, with senior leadership exposure.
• Strong menu development, costing, and budgeting capabilities.
• Experience leading remote teams using digital collaboration tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop seasonal, innovative menus for varied catering events while upholding quality and presentation.
• Oversee culinary operations, costing, procurement, inventory, and waste reduction remotely.
• Lead and mentor a diverse, distributed team via virtual communication.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety and sanitation standards.
• Collaborate with events teams to design customized culinary experiences for international clients.

Skills

Executive leadership

Menu development

Budget management

Remote team management

Food safety compliance

Communication

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the culinary events space, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Executive Chef to lead their global culinary operations. This pivotal role requires an individual with exceptional leadership skills, a passion for creating unforgettable dining experiences, and the ability to manage and inspire a distributed team. As our client continues to expand its reach, we are looking for a creative culinary artist who can drive innovation, maintain the highest standards of quality, and develop cutting‑edge menus that cater to diverse international palates. This position is a remote‑first opportunity, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while contributing significantly to the strategic direction of our client's catering division.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement innovative, seasonal menus for a variety of catering events, ensuring adherence to quality, taste, and presentation standards. Oversee all aspects of culinary operations, including menu costing, procurement, inventory management, and waste reduction, leveraging remote tools and platforms. Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team of chefs and kitchen staff across various locations through effective virtual communication and management. Ensure compliance with all food safety and sanitation regulations, maintaining the highest health standards in all culinary preparations. Collaborate with event planning teams to create customized culinary experiences that exceed client expectations. Manage budgets effectively, identifying cost‑saving opportunities without compromising on quality. Stay abreast of current culinary trends and innovations, integrating them into menu development and operational practices. Conduct remote tastings and quality control checks to ensure consistency and excellence. Manage supplier relationships, negotiating contracts and ensuring timely delivery of high‑quality ingredients.

Requirements

Minimum of 10 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Executive Chef, Head Chef) within the catering or hospitality industry. Proven experience in menu development, food costing, and budget management. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage remote teams effectively, utilizing digital collaboration tools. Strong understanding of international cuisines and dietary restrictions. Exceptional organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to multitask in a fast‑paced environment. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills. Proficiency in culinary software and standard office applications. Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable. A passion for food innovation and a commitment to excellence in every dish served.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits plan. As a fully remote position, you will enjoy the flexibility to work from your preferred location. This role provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic catering business, with significant potential for professional growth and development. Join a collaborative and forward‑thinking team dedicated to culinary excellence. We provide the resources and support needed for you to thrive in this remote role.