Executive Chef – Lead Innovative Hotel Kitchen, Gauteng

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Opportunity for professional growth

Creative culinary expression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef for a prestigious hotel in Soweto, Gauteng. Lead culinary operations across multiple outlets, drive menu innovation, manage costs, and mentor a diverse kitchen team to maintain top-quality standards.

The role requires a minimum of 7 years in culinary roles with at least 3 years in an Executive/ Senior Sous Chef position, plus a culinary degree and strong English; location is Soweto, with on-site work and opportunities for growth in a dynamic hospitality

Qualifications

• 7 years of progressive culinary experience with 3 years in Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a hotel or fine dining setting.
• Proven expertise in menu development, costing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and ability to motivate a diverse kitchen team.
• Exceptional culinary skills with a passion for high-quality, innovative dishes.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and kitchen hygiene standards.
• Understanding of financial management and budget control in a culinary context.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent qualification is essential.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of local cuisines is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee culinary operations for hotel outlets including fine and casual dining, room service, banqueting, and events.
• Develop innovative menus reflecting current trends and guest preferences.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff to foster excellence and teamwork.
• Maintain high quality in food production, presentation, and flavors across outlets.
• Manage food costs, inventory, procurement, and supplier negotiations.
• Enforce strict health, safety, and hygiene standards in the kitchen.
• Collaborate with F&B Director on menu engineering, pricing, and profitability.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and professional development for staff.
• Control labor costs through efficient scheduling and resource management.
• Stay updated on culinary innovations and industry best practices.

Skills

Menu development

Cost control

Team leadership

Food safety

Negotiation

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Chef for a prestigious hotel in Soweto, Gauteng. Lead culinary operations across multiple outlets, drive menu innovation, manage costs, and mentor a diverse kitchen team to maintain top-quality standards.

The role requires a minimum of 7 years in culinary roles with at least 3 years in an Executive/ Senior Sous Chef position, plus a culinary degree and strong English; location is Soweto, with on-site work and opportunities for growth in a dynamic hospitality