Sous Chef - Banqueting & Events

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 201,000 - 335,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Sous Chef for a leading Durban event catering company. You will support the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations, plan menus for banquets, train staff, and ensure top hygiene and safety standards.

The role requires 4+ years in a busy kitchen, with at least 2 years as a Sous Chef, strong leadership, and cost-control know-how. You must thrive under pressure and be available for evenings and weekends during events in Durban.

Qualifications

• Formal culinary training or a related qualification.
• A minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in a kitchen role, with at least 2 years as a Sous Chef or equivalent in a busy catering or hospitality environment.
• Proven experience in banqueting and large-scale event catering is essential.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in overall kitchen management, including menu development, food preparation, and service.
• Supervise and train kitchen staff, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to recipes and standards.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation, ordering supplies, and controlling food costs.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented to the highest standards of quality and consistency.
• Maintain strict adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations within the kitchen.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to understand client requirements and execute menus effectively.
• Conduct quality control checks and taste panels to ensure culinary excellence.
• Assist in scheduling kitchen staff to meet operational demands.
• Be prepared to step in as Head Chef in their absence.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Menu development

Food safety

Team supervision

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading event catering company in Durban , is seeking a dynamic and experienced Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and ensuring the successful execution of high-quality banquets and events. This role is critical in maintaining the exceptional standards our client is known for. You will be involved in menu planning, food preparation, team supervision, and ensuring the highest levels of hygiene and safety. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a passion for culinary excellence, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding environment. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated chef looking to take on more responsibility and grow within a prestigious catering organization in Durban .

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in the overall management of the kitchen, including menu development, food preparation, and service.
• Supervise and train kitchen staff, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to recipes and standards.
• Manage inventory, including stock rotation, ordering supplies, and controlling food costs.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented to the highest standards of quality and consistency.
• Maintain strict adherence to health, safety, and hygiene regulations within the kitchen premises.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to understand client requirements and execute menus effectively.
• Conduct quality control checks and taste panels to ensure culinary excellence.
• Assist in managing the scheduling of kitchen staff to meet operational demands.
• Be prepared to step in as Head Chef in their absence.

Requirements

• Formal culinary training or a related qualification.
• A minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in a kitchen role, with at least 2 years as a Sous Chef or equivalent in a busy catering or hospitality environment.
• Proven experience in banqueting and large-scale event catering is essential.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• In-depth knowledge of culinary techniques, food safety standards, and cost control measures.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules in Durban .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and skills. Opportunities for career advancement within a well-established catering firm is available. You will work with a dedicated team in a stimulating environment, utilizing modern kitchen facilities. The compensation package includes potential bonuses, medical aid, and retirement fund benefits. This role provides a platform to further hone your culinary and leadership skills while contributing to memorable event experiences.