Special Events Catering Chef

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly creative and experienced Special Events Catering Chef for on-site roles in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will lead the kitchen team, design bespoke menus for weddings, private parties, and corporate functions, and ensure top-tier food quality and presentation.

Role requires strong leadership, menu development skills, and a track record in event catering. You will collaborate with event planners to deliver flawless culinary experiences in a fast-paced

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience as a Chef with catering focus.
• Proven ability to create diverse, high-quality menus for events.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Expertise in food costing and inventory control.
• Solid food safety and sanitation knowledge.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Based in/relocatable to Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute menus for special events tailored to clients.
• Lead and train the kitchen brigade for efficient workflow.
• Manage all aspects of food prep, cooking, presentation.
• Oversee inventory including ordering and receiving.
• Ensure HACCP compliance and hygiene standards.
• Collaborate with catering manager and event planners.
• Control food costs and manage kitchen budgets.
• Conduct tastings and menu development with clients.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen areas.

Skills

Menu design

Kitchen leadership

Food costing

HACCP

Food safety

Event catering

Inventory control

Team management

Communication

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned boutique catering company in Port Elizabeth, is seeking a highly creative and experienced Special Events Catering Chef. This role is perfect for a culinary artist passionate about crafting bespoke menus and delivering exceptional food experiences for weddings, private parties, and corporate functions. You will lead the kitchen team, manage inventory, maintain impeccable hygiene standards, and ensure the highest quality of food preparation and presentation. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in classic and contemporary cuisine, excellent organizational skills, and a proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced event environment. This is an on-site position essential for ensuring the quality and precision of culinary creations at events held in and around Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will be responsible for the culinary vision and execution that sets our client apart.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute innovative menus for a variety of special events, tailored to client preferences and specifications.
• Lead and train the kitchen brigade, ensuring efficient workflow and high standards of food production.
• Manage all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and storing of food supplies.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations (HACCP).
• Collaborate with the catering manager and event planners to ensure seamless event execution.
• Control food costs and manage kitchen budgets effectively.
• Conduct taste testing and menu development sessions with clients.
• Ensure the cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and all food preparation areas.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Chef, with a significant focus on catering and special events.
• Proven ability to create diverse and high-quality menus, including accommodating dietary restrictions.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent understanding of food costing, inventory control, and kitchen management.
• Proficiency in food safety and sanitation practices.
• Creative flair and a passion for culinary arts.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and culinary expertise.
• Opportunity to showcase creativity and work with premium ingredients.
• Be part of a highly regarded and innovative catering company.
• Professional development opportunities and exposure to diverse events.
• Work in a vibrant culinary scene in Port Elizabeth.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.