Executive Chef - Luxury Resort

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Accommodation provided

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a premier luxury resort in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, to hire an Executive Chef. You will lead culinary operations across multiple dining venues, crafting innovative menus, mentoring a large kitchen team, and ensuring top-tier guest dining experiences in a high-pressure luxury environment.

The role requires a culinary degree, 7+ years of experience, and strong leadership with a focus on food safety, budgeting, and P&L management.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of progressive culinary experience
• At least 3 years in an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef role
• Culinary degree or equivalent qualification
• Proven ability to manage large kitchen teams and control food costs
• Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, budgeting, and financial management

Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations across resort outlets and menus
• Develop innovative menus reflecting seasonal ingredients and global trends
• Manage, train, and mentor kitchen brigade; foster excellence and teamwork
• Ensure HACCP standards and kitchen hygiene
• Control food costs, inventory, and procurement with suppliers
• Collaborate with F&B Director on budgeting and profitability targets
• Oversee events, banquets, and in-room dining; maintain quality and service

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Staff management

Food safety

Budgeting/P&L

Communication

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier luxury resort located in the stunning coastal town of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a visionary and highly skilled Executive Chef to lead their culinary operations. This is a leadership position responsible for setting the highest standards of gastronomic excellence across multiple dining venues within the resort. The ideal candidate will possess a refined palate, exceptional creativity, and a proven ability to manage a large kitchen brigade in a high-pressure, luxury environment. You will be responsible for menu development, kitchen management, inventory control, staff training, and ensuring an unparalleled dining experience for resort guests. This role requires a passion for culinary innovation, a commitment to quality, and the leadership acumen to inspire a talented team to achieve perfection. Join us in shaping the future of fine dining on the coast.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including menu planning, food preparation, and presentation across all resort outlets. Develop innovative and appealing menus that reflect seasonal ingredients and international culinary trends, catering to diverse guest preferences. Manage, train, and mentor the entire kitchen brigade, fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork. Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards (HACCP). Control food costs, manage inventory, conduct regular stocktakes, and optimize procurement processes with suppliers. Collaborate with the Food & Beverage Director on budgeting, financial forecasting, and profitability targets for the kitchen. Maintain impeccable standards of kitchen hygiene, equipment maintenance, and overall operational efficiency. Conduct regular performance reviews for kitchen staff and implement ongoing training programs. Source high-quality ingredients, building strong relationships with local and international suppliers. Oversee banquets, events, and in-room dining, ensuring consistent quality and service.

Requirements

Minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef role, preferably within a luxury hotel or resort environment. A culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification from a reputable institution. Demonstrated expertise in classical and contemporary cuisine, with a strong portfolio of successful menu creations. Proven ability to manage large kitchen teams and control food costs effectively. Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and kitchen management systems. Strong understanding of budgeting, P&L statements, and financial management. Creativity, passion for culinary arts, and a commitment to excellence. Ability to work demanding hours, including weekends and public holidays. Must be based in or willing to relocate to Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

This executive role offers an attractive, highly competitive salary package, performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid and a generous retirement fund contribution. Accommodation may be provided or subsidized for the right candidate. There are significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a globally recognized brand. You will lead a dynamic culinary team and contribute to the resort's reputation for excellence. Enjoy breathtaking coastal living and a challenging, rewarding career.