Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Harare
- Category: Hospitality
- Closing Date: 2026-09-11
Key Responsibilities
- Manage overall kitchen and catering operations.
- Lead and supervise kitchen teams.
- Develop nutritious and cost-effective menus.
- Monitor food quality, presentation and consistency.
- Manage food costs, stock control and wastage.
- Ensure strict compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
- Manage client relationships and service delivery.
- Conduct staff training, coaching and performance management.
- Prepare management reports and budgets.
Requirements
- Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Professional Cookery, Culinary Arts or related field.
- Class 1 Journeyman or National Certificate in Professional Cookery.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior chef or catering management position.
- Proven experience in contract catering, mining, industrial or remote site catering.
- Sound knowledge of menu planning, food costing and stock management.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Computer literacy and report writing skills
How to Apply
About the Company
Tsebo Zimbabwe operates as a provider of integrated facilities and workplace management services within Zimbabwe. The company delivers solutions spanning catering, cleaning, and facilities management to businesses across the country. As part of the broader Tsebo Solutions Group, the Zimbabwean operation focuses on supporting local organisations with outsourced support services. Its work helps clients in Zimbabwe maintain operational efficiency and hygienic, well-run environments.
Integrated workplace management solutions across Zimbabwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to work as a Catering Manager or Head Chef in Zimbabwe?
Most employers expect a diploma or degree in culinary arts, hospitality management, or a related field, plus a valid medical certificate and food handler's certificate. Practical kitchen experience and knowledge of HACCP or food safety standards are often more important than academic qualifications alone.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for this role on a contract basis?
You will plan menus, supervise kitchen staff, manage food stock and orders, and ensure meals are prepared on time and within budget. You will also enforce hygiene and safety standards, handle client feedback, and report to the contract manager or client representative.
What is the local work culture and what expectations do Zimbabwean employers have for catering managers?
Employers value punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and the ability to work long or irregular hours, especially during functions or peak service periods. You are expected to lead by example, manage diverse kitchen teams firmly but fairly, and maintain high standards even under pressure.
What career progression can I realistically expect after working as a contract Catering Manager or Head Chef?
You can progress to larger contract sites, multi-site catering management, or regional operations roles within hospitality or facilities management companies. Some professionals move into food service consulting, training, or start their own catering businesses after gaining enough experience and client contacts.
What benefits are typically offered for contract catering roles in Zimbabwe?
Benefits vary by employer, but contract roles often include paid leave, medical aid contributions, and sometimes a transport or meal allowance. Pension and housing allowances are less common for short-term contracts, so confirm the full package before signing.
How do I apply and what do employers in Zimbabwe look for when hiring for this role?
Apply through the company's official careers portal or recruitment email, and attach a clear CV with references from previous kitchens or hospitality employers. Employers look for proven kitchen leadership, food cost control skills, a clean disciplinary record, and the ability to start immediately on a contract basis.