Executive Chef - Fine Dining

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Employee dining/discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly creative and experienced Executive Chef to lead a flagship fine dining establishment in Johannesburg. The role focuses on menu development, kitchen operations, staff leadership, and maintaining top-quality presentation.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in progressive culinary roles including 3+ years as Executive/Head Chef, with a formal culinary credential preferred. Expect a competitive salary, bonuses, and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of culinary experience with at least 3 years in an executive/head chef role in fine dining.
• Formal culinary degree or apprenticeship is highly desirable.
• Proven ability in menu engineering, cost control, and inventory management.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and execute innovative menus reflecting seasonal ingredients and trends.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food prep, cooking, and plating with consistency.
• Train, mentor, and lead kitchen staff to foster high performance.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and ensure hygiene and safety standards.
• Collaborate with front-of-house management to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

Skills

Executive leadership

Menu development

Cost control

Staff mentoring

Food safety knowledge

Education

Formal culinary degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly creative and experienced Executive Chef to lead their flagship fine dining establishment in the heart of Johannesburg . This pivotal role demands exceptional culinary artistry, strong leadership, and a passion for delivering unparalleled gastronomic experiences. You will be responsible for menu development, kitchen operations, staff management, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and presentation. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of global cuisines, a commitment to sustainable sourcing, and the ability to inspire a talented culinary team to achieve excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and execute innovative menus that reflect seasonal ingredients and current culinary trends.
• Oversee all daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Manage, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and maintain impeccable standards of hygiene and safety in the kitchen.
• Collaborate with the front-of-house management to ensure seamless service and exceptional guest satisfaction.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in an Executive Chef or Head Chef role in a fine dining setting.
• Formal culinary degree or recognized apprenticeship is highly desirable.
• Proven ability in menu engineering, cost control, and inventory management.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and culinary competitions.
• Employee discounts on dining and accommodation.
• A dynamic and prestigious work environment in Johannesburg .