Executive Chef - Vineyard Fine-Dining & Wine Pairings

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary and bonus

Health and retirement benefits

Accommodation provided

International exposure

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Executive Chef in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to lead culinary operations across vineyard events and fine dining. The role requires strategic menu development, strong leadership, and strict cost control to deliver unforgettable guest experiences aligned with local terroir.

You will oversee menu planning, kitchen management, staff training, and HACCP compliance to maintain top quality and profitability in a high-volume luxury setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in an Executive/Head Chef role.
• Experience in fine dining, luxury hotels, or high-volume event settings is preferred.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Expertise in menu development, seasonal and local ingredients.
• Solid knowledge of food costing, inventory control and budget management.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• HACCP understanding and compliance is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all culinary operations across multiple kitchens and event spaces.
• Develop innovative, seasonal menus featuring local produce and wine pairings.
• Recruit, train, schedule and manage kitchen staff performance.
• Ensure consistent food quality and plating to high culinary standards.
• Manage food costs, inventory and supplier relationships to optimize profitability.
• Enforce health, safety and sanitation standards in all kitchen areas.
• Collaborate with management on events, menus and guest experience.
• Foster creativity, excellence and continuous improvement within the team.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Inventory control

Budget management

HACCP knowledge

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Wine pairing

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Placements24 seeks an Executive Chef in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to lead culinary operations across vineyard events and fine dining. The role requires strategic menu development, strong leadership, and strict cost control to deliver unforgettable guest experiences aligned with local terroir.

You will oversee menu planning, kitchen management, staff training, and HACCP compliance to maintain top quality and profitability in a high-volume luxury setting.