Senior Event Chef (Banqueting & Corporate)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Event Chef in Stellenbosch to lead culinary teams for high‑profile events. You will design innovative menus, oversee kitchen operations during event prep and execution, and ensure exceptional quality and presentation across corporate functions and private events.

You will collaborate with event planners and clients, manage food costs and staff, and push culinary excellence in a hybrid work setting in the Western Cape.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years as a chef, with at least 4 years in event/banqueting in high-volume settings.
• Proven expertise in menu development, food preparation and presentation for diverse events.
• Strong leadership and team management skills to motivate culinary staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in planning, preparation, and execution for banquets, corporate events, and private functions.
• Develop creative menus tailored to client needs, diet restrictions, and event themes.
• Manage kitchen operations during event prep and execution, including staff supervision and workflow optimization.
• Ensure top standards of food quality, presentation, safety, and sanitation.
• Collaborate with event planners, sales teams, and clients to understand event requirements and deliver dining experiences.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and storage of ingredients and supplies.
• Train, mentor, and develop junior culinary staff for continuous growth.
• Conduct tastings and menu presentations for potential clients and organizers.
• Control food costs and labor to meet budgets without compromising quality.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and ingredients to drive menu innovation.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Cost control

Inventory management

Client relations

Education

Culinary degree/certification

Job description

About the Role

About the Role Our client is a premier catering and event management company based in the picturesque city of Stellenbosch , renowned for delivering bespoke culinary experiences for high-profile events, weddings, and corporate functions.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Event Chef to join our dynamic team. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a blend of on-site kitchen operations and remote administrative tasks. The Senior Event Chef will be responsible for overseeing the culinary execution of a wide range of events, ensuring exceptional quality, creativity, and consistency in food preparation and presentation. You will work closely with the event planning team, clients, and kitchen staff to design innovative menus and deliver memorable dining experiences. This position demands strong culinary expertise, leadership capabilities, and a passion for excellence in the fast-paced world of event catering. Your contributions will be crucial in maintaining our client's reputation as a leader in the Western Cape event industry. The ideal candidate possesses a refined palate, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to thrive under pressure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in the planning, preparation, and execution of food for banquets, corporate events, and private functions.
• Develop creative and appealing menus tailored to client needs, dietary restrictions, and event themes, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the kitchen during event preparation and execution, including staff supervision and workflow optimization.
• Ensure adherence to the highest standards of food quality, presentation, safety, and sanitation at all times.
• Collaborate closely with event planners, sales teams, and clients to understand event requirements and deliver exceptional dining experiences.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and storage of ingredients and supplies for events.
• Train, mentor, and develop junior culinary staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
• Conduct tastings and menu presentations for potential clients and event organizers.
• Manage food costs and labor expenses effectively to meet budgetary targets without compromising quality.
• Stay updated on the latest culinary trends, techniques, and ingredients to bring innovation to event menus.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience as a Chef, with at least 4 years in an event or banqueting role within a high-volume catering or hospitality environment.
• Proven expertise in menu development, food preparation, and presentation for diverse event types and guest counts.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide culinary staff effectively.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and kitchen management best practices.
• Proficiency in cost control, inventory management, and budget forecasting.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and client relations skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules.
• Culinary degree or recognized professional certification is highly desirable.
• Experience in a hybrid work environment, effectively managing responsibilities both on-site and remotely.
• A creative flair and passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences.

Benefits

This hybrid role offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to work with a renowned catering company in the heart of the Cape Winelands . Enjoy a dynamic work environment that balances flexibility with team collaboration. You will have the chance to showcase your culinary talents at prestigious events across the Western Cape and contribute to a company committed to excellence and client satisfaction.