Senior Event Chef - Premium Catering Lead

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

State-of-the-art kitchen facilities

Diverse Gauteng events

Supportive team environment

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg is seeking a Senior Event Chef to lead a culinary team for high-profile events across Gauteng. You will drive menu development, food cost control, and kitchen management in a fast-paced, high-volume catering environment.

The role requires exceptional leadership, creativity in menu design, and the ability to manage multiple events, with flexibility for evenings and weekends as schedules demand.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a senior culinary role.
• Proven menu development, costing and kitchen management expertise.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a dynamic Johannesburg environment.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Proficiency in inventory control and cost management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all culinary operations for diverse events, ensuring consistent quality and presentation.
• Develop innovative and seasonal menus in collaboration with clients and the event planning team, accommodating dietary needs.
• Manage kitchen staff, including hiring, training, scheduling and performance evaluation.
• Maintain strict inventory control, including food ordering, stock management and waste reduction strategies.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate with the events team to ensure seamless execution from menu concept to final service.
• Supervise food preparation, cooking and presentation during events.
• Control food costs and manage kitchen budgets to maximize profitability.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Kitchen management

Team leadership

Inventory management

Cost control

High-volume cooking

Communication skills

Stress management

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

Placements24 in Johannesburg is seeking a Senior Event Chef to lead a culinary team for high-profile events across Gauteng. You will drive menu development, food cost control, and kitchen management in a fast-paced, high-volume catering environment.

The role requires exceptional leadership, creativity in menu design, and the ability to manage multiple events, with flexibility for evenings and weekends as schedules demand.