Executive Chef - Fine Dining

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Executive Chef to lead a prestigious haute cuisine kitchen in Soweto. Oversee menu development, staff leadership, and quality control for an exceptional dining experience.

We require 5–7 years in fine dining, a culinary diploma or degree, strong budgeting and people skills, and a passion for culinary excellence in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive experience in a high-end, fine-dining restaurant.
• Diploma or degree from a recognized culinary institution.
• Exceptional culinary skills with a range of techniques and cuisines.
• Proven leadership and talent development abilities.
• Strong understanding of kitchen budgeting, cost control, and inventory management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure during peak service times.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative, seasonally inspired haute cuisine menus.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, food prep, cooking, and plating.
• Train and mentor sous chefs and kitchen staff.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and negotiate with suppliers.
• Maintain strict hygiene and safety standards.
• Collaborate with General Manager and Front of House for service excellence.
• Conduct regular performance reviews for kitchen staff.
• Stay updated with industry trends and culinary innovations.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Staff management

Budgeting

Communication

Education

Diploma or degree in culinary arts

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious culinary establishment in the heart of **Soweto**, is seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to lead their acclaimed kitchen operations. This is a pivotal role demanding creativity, impeccable leadership, and a deep understanding of haute cuisine. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of the kitchen, from menu development and staff management to ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation. We are looking for an individual with a proven track record of success in high-volume, fine-dining environments who can inspire a team and deliver unforgettable dining experiences for our discerning clientele in **Soweto**. This role is central to the continued success and reputation of our client's renowned restaurant.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and seasonally inspired menus that align with the restaurant's fine-dining concept and cater to the tastes of our **Soweto** patrons.
• Oversee all daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, ensuring consistency and excellence.
• Manage, train, and mentor a diverse team of sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and negotiate with suppliers to ensure quality ingredients at competitive prices.
• Maintain stringent hygiene and safety standards, adhering to all health regulations in **Soweto**.
• Collaborate with the General Manager and Front of House team to ensure seamless service delivery and guest satisfaction.
• Conduct regular performance reviews for kitchen staff.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and culinary innovations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-end, fine-dining restaurant.
• A diploma or degree from a recognized culinary institution.
• Exceptional culinary skills with a strong portfolio showcasing a range of cooking techniques and cuisines.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities, with a passion for developing talent.
• Strong understanding of kitchen budgeting, cost control, and inventory management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, comfortable interacting with guests and staff.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment, particularly during peak service times in **Soweto**.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations is essential.
• Creativity and a passion for food excellence.
• Must be legally eligible to work in **South Africa**.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including an attractive annual salary and performance-based bonuses. This role also provides the opportunity for significant professional growth and recognition within a respected culinary brand. Employees will benefit from opportunities for ongoing professional development and exposure to diverse culinary experiences. A supportive management team and a dynamic work environment are also key advantages of this position. You will be part of a team dedicated to culinary excellence in a vibrant setting.