Chef â Events & Harvest Catering

This is not a Commis or entry-level Chef position. We are looking for someone with a solid professional foundation who is ready to step up, take ownership, develop their skills and grow with the operation.

PURPOSE OF ROLE
Taking responsibility for the preparation and delivery of a high-quality, creative food offering across intimate gatherings and larger functions, while bringing fresh ideas and seasonal inspiration to the menus.
The successful candidate will be hands-on in the kitchen and closely involved in the development of the culinary offering, working alongside the owner and events team to create food experiences that reflect the character of the estate.

This is an opportunity for an ambitious Chef to make their mark, develop their own ideas and grow into a broader culinary role as the events operation continues to expand.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Planning, preparing and executing menus for functions and events
• Creating innovative seasonal and farm-to-table dishes
• Developing appealing harvest-table and outdoor braai offerings
• Preparing food in the kitchen for functions and events
• Ensuring consistently high standards of food quality, presentation and taste
• Catering for intimate gatherings through to larger functions of up to approximately 200 guests
• Working closely with the owner and events team to understand each function's requirements
• Bringing creativity, fresh thinking and inspiration to menu development
• Using seasonal and locally available produce creatively
• Considering food costing, portioning, wastage and profitability when developing menus
• Contributing ideas towards the continued development of the culinary offering
• Guiding and working alongside scullery staff to ensure an efficient kitchen operation
• Assisting with the bakery/deli operation during quieter periods
• Maintaining excellent hygiene, food safety and kitchen standards
• Contributing positively to a collaborative, guest-focused team environment

CRITERIA

• Approximately 24 years' professional Chef experience
• Experience in events, functions or catering essential
• A solid professional culinary foundation this is not an entry-level Commis or Junior Chef position
• Strong practical Chef skills and the ability to work independently
• Experience with menu planning and preparation
• A genuine passion for food, cooking and the culinary industry
• Creative, curious and eager to experiment with flavours, ingredients and presentation
• A genuine interest in seasonal, farm-to-table and harvest-style cuisine
• Commercial and business awareness, including an understanding of food costing, portion control, wastage and profitability
• Comfortable preparing food for both intimate and larger gatherings
• Ambition to grow professionally and take on increasing responsibility
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Warm, friendly and guest-oriented personality
• Strong work ethic with excellent attention to detail and standards
• Ability to work calmly and efficiently under pressure
• A hands-on team player who is willing to get involved wherever needed
• Own reliable vehicle and valid driver's licence non-negotiable

If you are a talented Chef with a strong culinary foundation, big ideas and the ambition to grow, this could be the opportunity to make your mark.