Sous Chef - Banqueting and Events

Placements24; Durban; Presencial; ZAR 360.000 - 540.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a dynamic Sous Chef specializing in Banqueting and Events to lead the high-volume banqueting kitchen alongside the Executive Chef. You will manage a diverse culinary team and ensure exceptional food quality, presentation and safety for weddings, galas and corporate events.

The ideal candidate has formal culinary qualifications, at least five years in banqueting and large-scale event catering, and proven leadership.

Formación

• Minimum 5 years in banqueting and large-scale event catering.
• Formal culinary qualification and leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and cost control.
• Ability to manage a large kitchen team in high-pressure settings.

Responsabilidades

• Assist in daily management of the banqueting kitchen operations.
• Supervise, train, and motivate the banqueting kitchen brigade.
• Oversee the preparation and execution of all food for banquets and events.
• Implement and enforce HACCP and hygiene protocols.
• Manage inventory, including ordering supplies, receiving goods, stock rotation, and minimizing wastage.
• Contribute to menu development and costing for banqueting and event packages.
• Assist in labor cost control and budget adherence.

Conocimientos

Banqueting leadership

Large-event catering

Food cost control

Kitchen management

HACCP & safety

Educación

Formal culinary qualification

Herramientas

Microsoft Office

Kitchen management software

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a leading luxury hotel and event venue situated in the bustling heart of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is looking for a dynamic and experienced Sous Chef specializing in Banqueting and Events. This role is critical to ensuring the seamless execution of culinary operations for a wide array of functions, from lavish weddings and corporate galas to intimate private celebrations. The Sous Chef will work closely with the Executive Chef to manage the banqueting kitchen, oversee a diverse culinary team, and maintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and safety. This is an exceptional opportunity for a talented chef who thrives in a high-volume, fast-paced environment and possesses a passion for creating memorable culinary experiences for diverse clientele in Durban. If you are seeking to advance your career in a prestigious hospitality setting, this role offers significant challenges and rewards.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in the daily management of the banqueting kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency and high performance.
• Supervise, train, and motivate the banqueting kitchen brigade, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.
• Oversee the preparation and execution of all food for banquets and events, ensuring adherence to recipes, quality standards, and client specifications.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety and hygiene protocols, including HACCP, to maintain a safe working environment and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Manage inventory, including ordering supplies, receiving goods, stock rotation, and minimizing wastage to control food costs effectively.
• Contribute to menu development and costing for banqueting and event packages, collaborating with the sales and events teams.
• Ensure consistent presentation and quality of all dishes served, paying meticulous attention to detail.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure all facilities are kept in excellent working order and are spotlessly clean.
• Assist in the financial management of the kitchen, including labor cost control and budget adherence.
• Step in for the Executive Chef when required, demonstrating leadership and decision-making capabilities.

Requirements

• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution or equivalent apprenticeship.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar role, with a strong emphasis on banqueting and large-scale event catering within a 4 or 5-star hotel or high-end catering company.
• Proven ability to manage and lead a large kitchen team in a high-pressure environment.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
• Strong understanding of cost control, inventory management, and budget management.
• Creative flair with a passion for food and presentation.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple events simultaneously in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, based on event demands.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant kitchen management software is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package designed to attract top talent, reflecting the demands and responsibilities of the role. This includes a comprehensive annual salary and benefits package.
• You will have the opportunity to work in a world-class facility, be part of a highly skilled and dedicated team, and contribute to memorable events in Durban.
• Professional development opportunities, staff meals, and hotel discounts are also part of the package.
• This role is ideal for an ambitious Sous Chef looking to make a significant impact in the vibrant KwaZulu-Natal hospitality scene.