Senior Event Chef - Banqueting Specialist

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 540,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remuneration

Benefits scheme

Professional development

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Event Chef in Midrand, Gauteng to lead kitchen operations across diverse events, from corporate functions to large weddings. You will design menus, manage inventory, and ensure strict hygiene and safety standards.

The ideal candidate has at least 5 years in senior culinary roles, strong leadership, menu costing experience, and a culinary degree or equivalent. Flexible hours, weekends, and public holidays may be required; you will mentor staff and uphold the highest

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a senior culinary role, preferably in high-volume catering or fine dining.
• Proven experience in menu development and costing.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Knowledge of culinary techniques, ingredients and presentation.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and execute menus for diverse events within client briefs and budgets.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff to maintain a productive work environment.
• Oversee kitchen operations including food prep, cooking, plating and presentation.
• Manage inventory, procurement and cost control to optimise profitability.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate with event coordinators and sales teams for smooth execution.
• Maintain high quality and consistency across all dishes.
• Conduct regular taste tests and quality checks.
• Maintain and service kitchen equipment; keep it in good working order.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Culinary techniques

Food safety knowledge

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event management and catering company, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Event Chef to join their dynamic team in **Midrand, Gauteng**. This is an exceptional opportunity for a culinary artist to lead and inspire kitchen operations for a wide array of prestigious events, ranging from intimate corporate gatherings to large-scale banquets and weddings. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving culinary innovation, maintaining impeccable quality standards, and ensuring seamless execution of all food and beverage services. You will work closely with the catering management team to develop bespoke menus, manage inventory, and uphold the highest levels of hygiene and safety. This role requires a passion for fine dining, a strategic approach to kitchen management, and a commitment to exceeding client expectations. As a Senior Event Chef, you will be a key player in shaping the culinary identity of events held at various upscale venues across the **Gauteng** region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and execute innovative menus for diverse events, adhering to client briefs and budgetary constraints.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and presentation.
• Manage food inventory, procurement, and cost control to optimize profitability and minimize waste.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with event coordinators and sales teams to ensure smooth event execution and client satisfaction.
• Maintain exceptional quality and consistency in all dishes served.
• Conduct regular taste testing and quality checks.
• Manage kitchen equipment and ensure it is maintained in good working order.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in a senior culinary role, preferably within high-volume catering or fine dining establishments.
• Proven experience in menu development and costing.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• In-depth knowledge of culinary techniques, ingredients, and presentation styles.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP certification is a plus).
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a professional demeanor.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.
• Must be available to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules in Midrand and surrounding areas.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes a comprehensive benefits scheme, opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing organization, and the chance to work with a talented and passionate team.
• You will be part of a company that values creativity, excellence, and dedication.
• Enjoy the prestige of contributing to high-profile events and gain invaluable experience in the vibrant Gauteng catering industry.
• This role offers a stable, full-time position with a clear path for growth.