Executive Chef

Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd; Lephalale; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd seeks an Executive Chef for luxury lodges, five-star hotels, and resorts. The role requires advanced culinary techniques, menu development, and strict food cost management in high-end settings.

Applicants should have leadership experience managing large kitchen teams, strong budgeting skills, and a passion for exceptional service in demanding environments. On-site work is expected, with weekend/evening shifts possible.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Culinary Arts, Professional Cookery, or Hospitality Management.
• Food Safety and Hygiene Certification (HACCP preferred).
• Additional culinary certifications are advantageous.

Skills

Leadership

Planning

Communication

Cost control

Menu development

Quality assurance

Problem solving

Time management

Adaptability

Staff training

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts

Professional Cookery

Hospitality Management degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Hospitality management systems

Job description

Minimum Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Culinary Arts, Professional Cookery, or Hospitality Management.
• Food Safety and Hygiene Certification (HACCP preferred).
• Additional culinary certifications are advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum of 810 years' experience in professional kitchens.
• At least 35 years' experience in an Executive Chef or Senior Head Chef position.
• Experience within luxury lodges, five-star hotels, resorts, or fine dining establishments is highly desirable.
• Proven experience managing large kitchen teams and multi-outlet operations.
• Strong experience in budgeting, food costing, stock management, and supplier negotiations.

Knowledge

• Advanced culinary techniques and international cuisine.
• Menu planning and recipe development.
• Food costing and budget management.
• Kitchen operations and workflow management.
• Food safety legislation and HACCP principles.
• Inventory and procurement processes.
• Health and safety regulations.
• Staff training and performance management.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional leadership and team management skills.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Financial acumen with a strong understanding of cost control.
• Creativity and innovation in menu development.
• High attention to detail and quality standards.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure.
• Excellent time management and multitasking skills.
• Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and hospitality management systems.

Personal Attributes

• Passion for culinary excellence.
• Professional appearance and conduct.
• Strong work ethic and integrity.
• Positive and proactive attitude.
• Adaptable and resilient in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to continuous learning and development.
• Guest-focused with a dedication to exceptional service.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and mentor a diverse team.

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's licence (preferred for remote lodge operations).
• Willingness to work weekends, evenings, and public holidays.
• Physically fit and capable of working in a demanding kitchen environment.
• Ability to reside on-site if required.
• No criminal record.
• Eligible to work in the country of employment