Executive Chef - Luxury Hotel

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health and medical aid benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Staff discounts on hotel services and餐

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Executive Chef for a prestigious Johannesburg hotel. You will lead culinary operations across multiple outlets, drive menu development, maintain top food quality, and uphold hygiene standards in a high-volume, fine-dining environment.

This hands-on role requires strong leadership, cost control, staff development, and the ability to create seamless guest experiences across banquets, room service, and outlets, while staying ahead of culinary trends.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive culinary experience in luxury hotel or high-end restaurants, including leadership roles.
• Proven ability to manage a large kitchen brigade with hiring, training and performance management.
• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation and HACCP practices.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative menus for hotel outlets including fine dining, banquets and room service.
• Mentor and manage a diverse culinary team, providing ongoing training and development.
• Oversee inventory, cost control and budget adherence to ensure profitability and efficiency.
• Maintain top food safety, sanitation and hygiene standards in line with local regulations and best practices.
• Collaborate with F&B management to plan events and promotions.
• Source high-quality ingredients from reputable suppliers and negotiate pricing.
• Conduct regular performance reviews for kitchen staff and recognize achievements.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and incorporate new techniques into menus.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Staff training

Food safety (HACCP)

Budget management

Education

Formal culinary degree or equivalent apprenticeship

Tools

Kitchen management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious hotel in the heart of Johannesburg , is seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Chef to lead their culinary operations. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the dining experience of a world-class establishment. The Executive Chef will be responsible for all aspects of the kitchen, from menu development and staff management to food quality and hygiene standards. We are looking for a creative and passionate individual with a proven track record in high-volume, fine-dining environments. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of culinary trends. This role requires dedication, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. The successful applicant will oversee multiple dining venues within the hotel, ensuring a consistent and superior guest experience across all. The position is based in Johannesburg , Gauteng, and demands a hands‑on approach to kitchen management.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative menus for all hotel outlets, including fine dining, banquets, and room service, ensuring seasonal relevance and high-quality ingredients.
• Manage and mentor a diverse culinary team, fostering a positive and productive work environment, and providing ongoing training and development.
• Oversee all kitchen operations, including inventory management, cost control, and budget adherence, ensuring profitability and efficiency.
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and hygiene in accordance with local regulations and industry best practices.
• Collaborate with the F&B management team to plan and execute special events and promotions.
• Source high-quality ingredients from reputable suppliers, negotiating pricing and building strong relationships.
• Conduct regular performance reviews for kitchen staff, identifying areas for improvement and recognizing achievements.
• Stay abreast of culinary trends and incorporate new techniques and ideas into menu offerings.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef role within a luxury hotel or high-end restaurant.
• Formal culinary degree or equivalent apprenticeship from a recognized institution.
• In-depth knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, and presentation styles.
• Proven ability to manage a large kitchen brigade, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Strong financial acumen, with demonstrated experience in menu costing, inventory control, and budget management.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP).
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Creative flair and a passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in relevant kitchen management software is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead culinary innovation in a renowned Johannesburg hotel.
• Comprehensive health and medical aid benefits.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Generous staff discounts on hotel services and dining.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment in the vibrant city of Johannesburg .