Loret Theunissen

With 36 years of extensive experience in the food industry, Loret has worked across various sectors, making her a well-rounded professional with a strong foundation in culinary techniques. Her skills include cooking methods, flavor profiles, and food presentation, all of which are essential for ensuring that food preparation meets quality standards and customer expectations. A dedicated chef and trainer with a proven track record of achieving tangible results through cross-team collaboration.

Loret is proactive, enthusiastic and passionate about food.

Owner | Caterer | Coffee Shop | Cooking School | Consultant at Loret's Kitchen (1998-01 – Present)

I established a catering service company that provided various outside catering solutions to corporate clients at their offices and business parks, accommodating groups of 10 to 100 people. Our services include:

• Year-end function catering for events ranging from 30 to 300 guests
• Wedding catering, including venue setup and cleanup
• Hosting team-building events and parties, including master chef experiences for corporate clients, private functions, and children's events
• Notable customers include: Oprah Winfrey School (with Miss Oprah in attendance) in Henley on Klip; Dulux Paint in Greenstone; Detnet in Modderfontein; Coca-Cola in Tzaneen; Da Vinci School of Technology in Modderfontein; SASOL in Sasolburg; Redham College; Tuck shop at Curro, Ballito

Head of Training and Development at Mozambik Franchise Group (2023-08 – 2024-09)

• Developed comprehensive training materials
• Conducted training sessions for waitstaff and chefs in front and back of house
• Oversaw chef training initiatives across the franchise
• Delivered nationwide food safety training sessions
• Managed external occupational health and safety training programs across multiple locations

Catering Manager at Horn & Phillips Catering Consortium (2023-03 – 2023-07)

• Developed and implemented personalised menus for clients
• Oversaw the acquisition of ingredients and kitchen tools
• Secured new clients for catering services
• Managed the establishment of coffee shop operations, including menu creation and standard procedures
• Coordinated the setup, service, and clearance of hospitality suites for the URC Cup
• Provided administrative support to business owners

Conference & Banqueting Co-Ordinator at Eskom Conference & Banqueting Centre (1992-03 – 1997-01)

Senior Chef Soccer World Cup at Multiple Venues (2010-06 – 2010-07)

Chef at IKOS Aria 5 star resort (2025-05 – 2025-06)

Chef / Cook & Stewardess charters S/Y & Catamarans at CAVO Yachting (2025-07 – 2025-07)

Sole Chef to private owner at Lady N Private 30m M/Y (2025-08 – 2025-08)

1 month freelance contract

Sole Chef to private owner at Lady N Private 30m M/Y (2026-07 – 2026-08)

Asked back for 2nd season

National Diploma in Catering Management – Wits Technikon Hotel School (1990-01 – 1990-12)

National Higher Diploma in Post School Education – PTA Technikon (1996-01 – 1996-12)