Executive Chef - Fine Dining Establishment

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Staff meals & uniforms

Generous annual leave

Professional development

Employee discounts

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef in Johannesburg to lead a prestigious fine dining kitchen. You will shape the culinary identity, drive innovation, and maintain top standards across menu development, sourcing, and staff management.

The role demands high-volume Upscale execution, strong leadership, and a passion for culinary artistry with a commitment to unforgettable dining experiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a high-end, fine dining setting as Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef.
• Deep knowledge of international cuisines, presentation, and plating.
• Proven ability to lead hiring, training, and performance management.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and HACCP.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and execute innovative seasonal menus aligned with brand.
• Oversee all kitchen operations: prep, cooking, plating, presentation.
• Source ingredients, manage supplier relationships, ensure cost-efficiency.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff; foster high performance.
• Maintain hygiene and safety standards per health regulations.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and optimize efficiency.
• Collaborate with front-of-house for seamless service.
• Conduct QC checks to ensure consistency and excellence.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and integrate where appropriate.
• Oversee menu costing and pricing to ensure profitability.

Skills

Executive leadership

Menu development

Food safety HACCP

Budget management

Staff training

Inventory management

Vendor relations

Culinary artistry

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Tools

Menu costing software

Inventory management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious fine dining establishment in the heart of Johannesburg , is seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Chef to lead their culinary team. This is a unique opportunity to shape the gastronomic identity of a renowned venue, driving innovation while maintaining the highest standards of quality and presentation. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of kitchen operations, from menu development and ingredient sourcing to staff management and financial control. We are looking for a passionate culinary artist with a proven track record of excellence in high-volume, upscale environments. This role offers a dynamic and challenging work setting, with the potential for significant creative input and professional growth. The ideal candidate will thrive under pressure and possess an unwavering commitment to delivering unforgettable dining experiences. If you are a leader with a refined palate and a dedication to culinary artistry, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity in Johannesburg , Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute innovative and seasonal menus that align with the restaurant's brand and target market.
• Manage all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and presentation.
• Source high-quality ingredients, establish relationships with suppliers, and ensure cost-effective procurement.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene, sanitation, and safety in the kitchen, adhering to all health regulations.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and optimize kitchen efficiency to achieve profitability targets.
• Collaborate with the front-of-house management to ensure seamless service and exceptional guest experiences.
• Conduct regular quality control checks to ensure consistency and excellence in all dishes served.
• Stay abreast of current culinary trends and incorporate them into menu offerings where appropriate.
• Oversee menu costing and pricing strategies to ensure profitability.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a reputable fine dining restaurant.
• A strong understanding of various culinary techniques, international cuisines, and food presentation.
• Proven ability to manage a kitchen team, including hiring, training, and performance management.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and HACCP principles.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budget management, cost control, and inventory management.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Creative flair and a passion for developing unique and high-quality dishes.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in menu costing software and inventory management systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to lead and innovate within a prestigious culinary setting in Johannesburg .
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• Staff meals and uniform provided.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment.
• Potential for career advancement within a well-established hospitality group.
• Employee discounts at affiliated establishments.