About Company
Nestled in the serene landscapes just outside Nairobi, Maasai Ostrich Resort is a unique and vibrant destination renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, exceptional hospitality, and distinctive events. As a premier resort, we pride ourselves on offering an unforgettable experience to our guests, whether they are enjoying a tranquil getaway, an adventurous outing, or celebrating a special occasion. Our commitment to culinary excellence is at the heart of our operations, particularly for our diverse range of private events, including weddings, corporate gatherings, anniversaries, and exclusive celebrations. We believe that exceptional food is a cornerstone of any memorable event, creating lasting impressions and delighting palates. At Maasai Ostrich Resort, we foster a culture of creativity, teamwork, and passion for delivering unparalleled service. We are dedicated to supporting our employees’ growth and providing an environment where culinary professionals can thrive, innovate, and contribute to crafting extraordinary moments for our esteemed clientele.
Job Description
We are seeking an exceptionally talented and passionate Caterer specializing in Food Preparation for Private Events to join our dynamic culinary team. This role is crucial in delivering high-quality, memorable dining experiences for our guests at various private functions hosted at Maasai Ostrich Resort. The ideal candidate will be a culinary artist with a meticulous eye for detail, a deep understanding of diverse cuisines, and a proven ability to execute sophisticated menus under pressure. You will be responsible for the entire food preparation process for private events, from initial ingredient selection and mise en place to the precise cooking and stunning presentation of dishes. This position requires not only culinary expertise but also strong organizational skills, strict adherence to food safety standards, and the ability to work collaboratively within a fast-paced kitchen environment. If you are a dedicated professional who thrives on creating exquisite culinary masterpieces and contributing to unforgettable events, we invite you to bring your passion and skills to Maasai Ostrich Resort and help us elevate our catering services to new heights. You will play a vital role in upholding our reputation for excellence and ensuring every private event is a gastronomic success.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute all aspects of food preparation for private events, including menu planning support, ingredient sourcing, and cooking.
- Ensure strict adherence to recipes, portion controls, and quality standards for all dishes.
- Oversee and manage food inventory, ensuring proper rotation, storage, and waste minimization.
- Maintain impeccable hygiene and sanitation standards in the kitchen and food preparation areas, complying with all health regulations.
- Collaborate closely with the Head Chef, Event Planners, and F&B team to understand event requirements and guest preferences.
- Assist in the development of innovative menus and culinary concepts tailored to various private event themes and dietary needs.
- Supervise junior kitchen staff during event preparations, providing guidance and support as needed.
- Ensure timely and efficient preparation of all food items to meet event schedules.
- Participate in plating and presentation, ensuring every dish meets the resort's high aesthetic standards.
- Troubleshoot and resolve any food-related issues that may arise during event preparation or service.
- Uphold a positive and professional demeanor, contributing to a harmonious and productive kitchen atmosphere.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Caterer, Chef de Partie, or similar role in a high-volume catering or hotel environment.
- Exceptional culinary skills with a strong understanding of various cooking techniques and cuisines.
- In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations (HACCP preferred).
- Strong organizational and time management abilities, capable of handling multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Creativity and passion for developing and presenting visually appealing and delicious food.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as dictated by event schedules.
Preferred Qualifications
- Diploma or Degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
- Experience in diverse international cuisines and special dietary requirements.
- Proficiency in inventory management and cost control for food operations.
- Leadership experience or the ability to mentor junior kitchen staff.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and service charge opportunities.
- Daily staff meals provided.
- Uniform provided and laundered.
- Opportunities for professional development and culinary training.
- A vibrant and supportive work environment within a renowned resort.
- Opportunity to work with fresh, high-quality local ingredients.
- Contribution to creating memorable experiences for guests.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the qualifications are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your CV and cover letter highlight your relevant experience in private event catering and food preparation. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Maasai Ostrich Resort family.