Senior Event Catering Chef

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 650,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Senior Event Catering Chef to lead a dynamic kitchen in George, Western Cape. You will design creative menus, oversee high-volume food preparation, and ensure top culinary standards for weddings, corporate events, and large functions.

The role blends onsite event execution with offsite planning and kitchen leadership. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in senior kitchen roles, formal culinary training, and a proven track record in menu development and food safety.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of Chef experience, with supervisory role in event catering or high-volume settings.
• Formal culinary training or apprenticeship required.
• Experience in multiple cooking styles and strong presentation.
• Know-how of HACCP and food safety standards.
• Ability to lead and motivate kitchen staff.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the kitchen team to ensure efficient workflow and morale.
• Design and execute creative, seasonal menus for diverse events.
• Oversee all food prep, cooking and presentation to meet quality standards.
• Manage inventory, ordering, reception, and storage to control costs.
• Ensure adherence to food safety, hygiene and sanitation regulations (HACCP).
• Collaborate with event coordinators to tailor menus to client needs.
• Conduct taste tests and quality control checks regularly.
• Oversee kitchen equipment maintenance and safe work environment.
• Stay ahead of culinary trends and incorporate into offerings.
• Help control food costs and contribute to event profitability.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food safety HACCP

Culinary techniques

Time management

Education

Culinary training

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious event management company based in George, Western Cape , is looking for a talented and experienced Senior Event Catering Chef . This role is perfect for a culinary artist who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a passion for creating memorable dining experiences for diverse events. You will be responsible for leading the kitchen brigade, developing innovative menus, and ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation for a wide range of functions, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate events and weddings. The position requires creativity, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of culinary techniques and food safety. Join our client's esteemed team in the beautiful George region and contribute your expertise to their renowned catering services. This role may involve a hybrid working model, blending on-site event execution with off-site menu planning and kitchen management.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the kitchen team, ensuring efficient workflow and high morale.
• Design, develop, and execute creative and seasonal menus for various event types, considering client preferences and dietary needs.
• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation to consistently meet quality standards.
• Manage kitchen inventory, including ordering, receiving, and proper storage of ingredients to minimize waste and control costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations (HACCP).
• Collaborate with event coordinators and clients to customize menus and accommodate specific requests.
• Conduct regular taste tests and quality control checks to maintain culinary excellence.
• Manage kitchen equipment maintenance and ensure a safe working environment.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends and incorporate them into menu offerings.
• Control food costs effectively and contribute to overall event profitability.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience as a Chef, with at least 2 years in a senior or supervisory role within event catering or a similar high-volume culinary environment.
• Formal culinary training or a recognized apprenticeship is essential.
• Demonstrated expertise in various cooking styles and techniques, with a flair for presentation.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety standards, hygiene practices, and HACCP principles.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate kitchen staff.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities, crucial for managing multiple events.
• Creative flair and a passion for developing unique and appealing dishes.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules in George .
• Proficiency in inventory management and food costing.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and skills. Benefits include opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic culinary team, exposure to diverse and exciting events, and a creative working environment. You will be part of a well-respected organization in the scenic Western Cape . Specific benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off will be discussed during the interview process for this exciting George -based role.