Executive Chef - Vineyard Restaurant

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Presencial; ZAR 1.200.000 - 1.800.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Medical aid

Performance bonus

Professional development opportunities

Wine and accommodation discounts

Discounts on vineyard dining

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is partnering with a renowned vineyard and acclaimed restaurant in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to hire an Executive Chef. You will lead culinary operations, concept menus, and kitchen leadership to deliver extraordinary dining experiences.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 6 years in fine dining, a culinary degree, and a passion for seasonal, local ingredients. You will manage costs, training, and standards across the brigade to uphold the highest quality and presentation.

Formación

• 6+ years of experience as Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in fine dining or upscale settings.
• Strong portfolio of culinary work and demonstrated creativity.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
• Deep knowledge of food costing, inventory control, and budget management.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Passion for seasonal, local ingredients and sustainable sourcing.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsabilidades

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations, including menu development, food prep, and plating.
• Create innovative, seasonally driven menus highlighting local produce and vineyard pairings.
• Mentor and train kitchen staff; drive performance management.
• Maintain top quality, taste, and presentation across dishes.
• Control budgets, food costs, and optimize inventory management.
• Enforce strict health, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Collaborate with restaurant management and wine team to elevate dining experience.
• Source high-quality ingredients from local, sustainable suppliers.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures for the kitchen.
• Stay ahead of culinary trends and continuously elevate the dining offering.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Menu development

Budget management

Food costing

Food safety

Seasonal sourcing

Staff mentorship

Educación

Culinary degree or equivalent

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a renowned vineyard and acclaimed restaurant in the heart of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking a highly creative and experienced Executive Chef. This pivotal role is responsible for leading all culinary operations, from menu conceptualization and execution to kitchen management and staff supervision. The ideal candidate will have a profound passion for fine dining, a commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients, and a proven ability to create innovative and exquisite dishes that reflect the unique terroir of the region. You will oversee a talented brigade of chefs and kitchen staff, ensuring the highest standards of quality, consistency, and presentation. This is an exceptional opportunity for a culinary artist to showcase their talent and lead the gastronomic direction of one of Stellenbosch, Western Cape's most celebrated dining establishments. We are looking for a visionary leader with a refined palate and a dedication to culinary excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the kitchen, including menu development, food preparation, and presentation.
• Create innovative and seasonally driven menus that highlight local produce and pair well with vineyard offerings.
• Oversee kitchen staff, providing training, mentorship, and performance management.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, taste, and presentation across all dishes.
• Manage kitchen budgets, control food costs, and optimize inventory management.
• Maintain strict adherence to health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate with the restaurant management and wine team to enhance the overall dining experience.
• Source high-quality ingredients from local and sustainable suppliers.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures for the kitchen.
• Stay abreast of culinary trends and innovations, continuously seeking to elevate the dining experience.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a fine dining or upscale restaurant environment.
• Demonstrated creativity and expertise in culinary arts, with a strong portfolio of work.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food costing, inventory control, and budget management.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• A passion for seasonal, local ingredients and sustainable sourcing.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification.
• A sophisticated palate and a dedication to gastronomic excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and an attractive bonus structure based on performance and profitability. Comprehensive benefits include medical aid, and opportunities for professional development and participation in culinary events. Employees will enjoy discounts on food, wine, and accommodation at the vineyard. A supportive and creative work environment is provided, fostering innovation and culinary artistry. This is a chance to lead the culinary vision at a premier destination in the beautiful Stellenbosch, Western Cape.