Executive Chef - Michelin-Starred Restaurant

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a world‑class Executive Chef to lead a Michelin-starred kitchen in Cape Town. You will design and execute exquisite tasting menus, mentor a diverse culinary team, and uphold the highest standards of quality and presentation.

The role requires a deep fine-dining heritage, sustainability focus, and the leadership to drive culinary excellence under demanding hours in a vibrant Cape Town setting.

Qualifications

• 8+ years progressive culinary experience, including at least 3 years in an Executive Chef role in fine dining or Michelin-starred establishments.
• Mastery of advanced cooking techniques and flavor profiles.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Culinary degree or equivalent from a reputable institution.
• Willingness to work demanding hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays in Cape Town.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations including menu planning, food preparation, and presentation.
• Develop innovative and seasonal tasting menus reflecting the restaurant's philosophy.
• Mentor and manage a team of sous chefs, line cooks, and pastry staff.
• Ensure top-quality food, consistency, and hygiene standards at all times.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and optimize supplier procurement.
• Collaborate with sommelier and front-of-house management to deliver a cohesive dining experience.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized kitchen in compliance with health regulations.
• Stay abreast of culinary trends and push creative boundaries.
• Plan staffing, scheduling, and training for operational efficiency.
• Represent the restaurant at culinary events and media opportunities as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Food safety

Cost control

Menu development

Communication

Creativity

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant situated in the vibrant culinary scene of Cape Town , is searching for an exceptionally talented and innovative Executive Chef. This is a unique opportunity to lead a world-class kitchen brigade, conceptualize and execute exquisite tasting menus, and uphold the restaurant's esteemed reputation for gastronomic excellence. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of fine dining, a passion for sustainable sourcing, and the leadership skills to inspire a dedicated culinary team. This role requires an on-site presence to manage all aspects of the kitchen operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations, including menu planning, food preparation, and presentation.
• Develop innovative and seasonal tasting menus that reflect the restaurant's culinary philosophy.
• Manage and mentor a team of sous chefs, line cooks, and pastry chefs.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, consistency, and hygiene are maintained at all times.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and optimize procurement from suppliers.
• Collaborate with the sommelier and front-of-house management to create a cohesive dining experience.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized working environment in compliance with health regulations.
• Stay abreast of culinary trends and techniques, continuously seeking opportunities for creativity and improvement.
• Manage kitchen staffing, scheduling, and training to ensure operational efficiency.
• Represent the restaurant at culinary events and media opportunities as needed.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in an Executive Chef role in a fine dining or Michelin-starred establishment.
• Demonstrated mastery of advanced cooking techniques and flavor profiles.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• A strong palate and an eye for detail in food presentation.
• Proven experience in cost control, inventory management, and supplier negotiation.
• Solid understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Creativity and a passion for pushing culinary boundaries.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification from a reputable institution.
• Willingness to work demanding hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays in Cape Town.

Benefits

• This role offers an attractive remuneration package, including performance-based bonuses, a comprehensive health insurance plan, and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for international culinary exposure and professional growth within a highly respected culinary group are provided.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• The opportunity to shape the future of a renowned culinary destination in Cape Town awaits.