Senior Event Chef - Bespoke Catering

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Premium ingredients

Career growth

Creative autonomy

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, is seeking a Senior Event Chef to design and execute exceptional culinary experiences for weddings, private parties, and corporate functions. You will lead a dedicated culinary team, conceptualize innovative menus, and manage kitchen operations on-site and off-site to uphold the highest standards.

The ideal candidate has a formal culinary qualification and 6+ years of event catering leadership, with strong menu design, food safety, and cost control

Qualifications

• Formal culinary qualification and/or extensive demonstrable experience in event catering.
• Proven ability to plan and execute high-end events with bespoke menus.
• Strong leadership and team management skills under pressure.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and cost control principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and execution of culinary aspects for high-end events.
• Develop bespoke menus tailored to client specifications and themes.
• Oversee on-site food preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure top quality.
• Mentor event kitchen staff and maintain a culture of excellence.
• Ensure HACCP and food safety compliance at all times.
• Manage event inventory, ordering, and cost control to meet budgets.
• Collaborate with event planning team and clients for personalized experiences.
• Maintain equipment and safe working environment on-site.
• Stay ahead of culinary trends to innovate offerings.
• Uphold the company’s reputation for exceptional quality and service.

Skills

Event catering experience

Leadership

Menu design

Food safety HACCP

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious bespoke catering company operating throughout the Free State, with a primary base in Bloemfontein, is seeking a highly skilled and creative Senior Event Chef. This role is pivotal in designing and executing exceptional culinary experiences for exclusive events, including weddings, private parties, and corporate functions. The Senior Event Chef will lead a dedicated culinary team, conceptualize innovative menus, manage kitchen operations on-site and off-site, and maintain the highest standards of quality, presentation, and food safety. The ideal candidate possesses a deep passion for gourmet cuisine, extensive experience in event catering, and strong leadership capabilities to inspire a team and deliver flawless results for discerning clients. This is a significant opportunity for a talented chef to elevate the culinary reputation of a leading catering service in the Free State region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of culinary aspects for a variety of high-end events.
• Develop creative, bespoke menus tailored to client specifications, event themes, and seasonal availability.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation at event venues, ensuring impeccable quality and aesthetic.
• Manage and mentor the event kitchen staff, fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and HACCP regulations at all times.
• Manage event-specific inventory, ordering, and cost control to meet budgetary requirements.
• Collaborate closely with the event planning team and clients to deliver personalized culinary experiences.
• Maintain equipment and ensure a safe, efficient working environment on-site.
• Continuously research culinary trends and techniques to innovate and enhance service offerings.
• Uphold the company's reputation for exceptional quality, service, and culinary artistry.

Requirements

• Formal culinary qualification and/or extensive demonstrable experience in event catering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience as an Event Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume catering environment.
• Proven expertise in diverse cuisines and presentation styles suitable for bespoke events.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and cost control principles.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, adapt to changing event needs, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Creative flair and a passion for delivering unique and memorable dining experiences.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as dictated by event schedules.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Bloemfontein, Free State.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with potential for bonuses based on event success and profitability.
• Opportunity to work on prestigious and diverse events, showcasing culinary artistry.
• Access to premium ingredients and cutting-edge catering equipment.
• Professional growth and development opportunities within a leading catering company.
• Creative autonomy in menu design and execution.
• Travel opportunities and exposure to different event environments.