Senior Banqueting & Events Chef

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Prestigious hospitality setting

Dynamic team

Professional development

Supportive work environment

Employee meals & discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Senior Banqueting & Events Chef in Port Elizabeth to lead high-volume banqueting operations and develop engaging menus for prestigious events.

The role emphasizes cost control, inventory management, and strict hygiene standards, with a focus on delivering memorable guest experiences across a range of functions.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Banqueting Chef, Events Chef, or Sous Chef in high-volume catering or hotel environments.
• Proven expertise in large-scale banqueting operations and menu development.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent understanding of food costing, inventory control, and waste management.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the banqueting kitchen operations, overseeing food preparation and execution for all events.
• Develop innovative and appealing menus suitable for banqueting and large-scale events, considering seasonal availability and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, taste, and presentation are consistently achieved.
• Manage kitchen staff, providing training, guidance, and performance feedback.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and minimize waste through efficient practices.
• Maintain strict adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene regulations in the kitchen.
• Collaborate with the events and management teams to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.
• Oversee the ordering and receiving of food supplies, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Contribute to menu engineering and pricing strategies for banqueting packages.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient working environment.

Skills

Banqueting leadership

Menu development

Large-scale catering

Food safety & hygiene

Inventory & cost control

Team management

High-volume catering

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned hospitality group with premium venues in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape , is looking for a highly skilled and experienced Senior Banqueting & Events Chef. This role is central to delivering exceptional culinary experiences for a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale banquets. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in large-volume catering, creative menu development, and meticulous execution. You will lead the banqueting kitchen team, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene are consistently met. This position requires a passion for food, a dedication to excellence, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, contributing significantly to the guest experience at prestigious functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the banqueting kitchen operations, overseeing food preparation and execution for all events.
• Develop innovative and appealing menus suitable for banqueting and large-scale events, considering seasonal availability and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, taste, and presentation are consistently achieved.
• Manage kitchen staff, providing training, guidance, and performance feedback.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and minimize waste through efficient practices.
• Maintain strict adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene regulations in the kitchen.
• Collaborate with the events and management teams to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.
• Oversee the ordering and receiving of food supplies, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Contribute to menu engineering and pricing strategies for banqueting packages.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient working environment.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Banqueting Chef, Events Chef, or Sous Chef in a high-volume catering or hotel environment.
• Proven expertise in large-scale banqueting operations and menu development.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent understanding of food costing, inventory control, and waste management.
• Proficiency in various cooking techniques and presentation styles.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards is essential.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines during busy periods.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• A passion for culinary excellence and delivering memorable guest experiences.
• Relevant culinary qualifications are highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and skills.
• Opportunity to work in a prestigious hospitality setting in Port Elizabeth .
• Be part of a dynamic team and contribute to high-profile events.
• Professional development and opportunities for growth within the company.
• A supportive work environment that values culinary talent.
• Employee meals and discounts on venue services.