Senior Event Chef - Catering

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Creative freedom

Growth opportunities

Cape Town location

Team environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Event Chef to lead the culinary team for catering events in Cape Town. You will design menus, manage kitchen operations, and ensure top-quality food and presentation for weddings, corporate functions, and other events.

The role requires 5+ years in event catering, a culinary degree, and strong leadership to inspire and guide kitchen staff while maintaining strict food safety and cost controls.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Chef with a focus on banqueting or event catering.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, food costing, and kitchen management.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute innovative menus tailored to diverse event types and client specifications.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating for catering events.
• Manage inventory, including sourcing high-quality ingredients and controlling food costs effectively.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring adherence to recipes, quality standards, and food safety protocols.
• Collaborate with the Catering Manager to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Kitchen management

Food safety

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Our client is seeking a highly creative and experienced Senior Event Chef to lead their culinary team for catering events in Cape Town . This role is crucial in crafting memorable dining experiences for a wide array of events, from elegant weddings to corporate functions. You will be responsible for menu creation, kitchen management, ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation, and leading a team of skilled chefs and kitchen staff. The ideal candidate possesses a deep passion for culinary arts, exceptional leadership abilities, and a flair for innovative cuisine that delights clients and guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute innovative menus tailored to diverse event types and client specifications.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating for catering events.
• Manage inventory, including sourcing high-quality ingredients and controlling food costs effectively.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring adherence to recipes, quality standards, and food safety protocols.
• Collaborate with the Catering Manager to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.
• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene and sanitation in the kitchen environment.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Chef, with a significant focus on banqueting or event catering.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, food costing, and kitchen management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and guide kitchen personnel.
• Exceptional understanding of diverse cuisines and presentation techniques.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Creative freedom in menu design and culinary innovation.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Work in a vibrant and scenic city, contributing to high-profile events.
• Team-oriented environment with supportive colleagues.