Senior Event Chef - Hybrid Lead, Menu Innovation

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Senior Event Chef to lead our culinary team for premium catering. This hybrid role blends on-site kitchen leadership with remote menu planning and strategy to create exceptional experiences for diverse events.

The candidate will design innovative menus, manage food quality and costs, and mentor staff while collaborating with planners to meet client visions and maintain top standards of service in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Five+ years of chef experience focused on catering and events.
• Formal culinary education from a recognized institution desirable.
• Proven expertise in menu creation, food styling, and presentation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent understanding of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Proficient in cost control, inventory management, and budgeting.
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in planning, prep, and execution of all catered events.
• Develop innovative menus considering client preferences and dietary needs.
• Ensure high quality of food production and presentation across events.
• Manage kitchen operations, inventory, food costs, and waste reduction.
• Mentor junior chefs and staff to foster a positive work environment.
• Collaborate with planners and sales to deliver tailored culinary solutions.
• Maintain health, safety, and hygiene standards in the kitchen.
• Conduct tasting panels and recipe testing for new menus.
• Engage in site visits and client consultations for expert guidance.
• Contribute to strategic direction of culinary department, including remote planning.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Menu development

Food safety

Cost control

Team management

Guest experience

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Senior Event Chef to lead our culinary team for premium catering. This hybrid role blends on-site kitchen leadership with remote menu planning and strategy to create exceptional experiences for diverse events.

The candidate will design innovative menus, manage food quality and costs, and mentor staff while collaborating with planners to meet client visions and maintain top standards of service in a fast-paced environment.