Executive Chef — Luxury Boutique Lodge: Creative Freedom & Growth

Kendrick Recruitment; Plettenberg Bay; On-site; ZAR 446,000 - 558,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Live-out position

Accommodation assistance for first 3 m

6 days on / 1 day off

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead the kitchen of a luxury boutique lodge in Plettenberg Bay. You will shape the culinary offering, manage supplier relationships and drive a high-end guest dining experience.

Salary range is R40,000–R50,000 per month with live-out accommodation support for the first 3 months, and a 6-days-on/1-day-off work cycle. This is a unique opportunity to build a distinctive cuisine while growing with the property.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or senior culinary leader.
• Experience in luxury lodge or high-end hospitality preferred.
• Strong culinary creativity and passion for exceptional food.
• Excellent plating and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and take full kitchen ownership.
• Based in Plettenberg Bay or willing to relocate.

Responsibilities

• Take full responsibility for the kitchen and overall culinary operation.
• Develop creative, seasonal menus for the lodge’s guest experience.
• Oversee refined light lunch and dinner offerings.
• Create visually stunning, delicious dishes.
• Collaborate with guests on dietary requirements and preferences.
• Source and manage suppliers; oversee purchasing and stock control.
• Maintain hygiene and kitchen cleanliness to high standards.
• Ensure consistent operations across service periods.
• Bring new ideas to develop the lodge’s culinary offering.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food plating

Supplier management

Kitchen management

Communication

Job description

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead the kitchen of a luxury boutique lodge in Plettenberg Bay. You will shape the culinary offering, manage supplier relationships and drive a high-end guest dining experience.

Salary range is R40,000–R50,000 per month with live-out accommodation support for the first 3 months, and a 6-days-on/1-day-off work cycle. This is a unique opportunity to build a distinctive cuisine while growing with the property.