Executive/Head Chef

Capsicum Culinary Studio; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Live in accommodation

Meals provided

Job summary

Sabi Sands is seeking an experienced Executive/Head Chef to lead its culinary team in a prestigious luxury lodge in Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga. The role demands strong leadership, world-class standards, and a focus on South African-inspired fine dining and innovative food trends.

Live-in accommodation and meals are provided, with a market-related salary negotiable DOE. Start date ASAP and a commitment to exceptional guest experiences in a 5-star environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of high-end Head Chef experience in a 4/5-star environment.
• Food Hygiene and professional cooking qualifications are essential.
• Strong knowledge of South African-inspired fine dining and trends.

Responsibilities

• Lead culinary team and maintain world-class standards in a 5-star lodge.
• Systemize kitchen operations including ordering, prep, presentation, and wastage control.
• Manage budgets, profitability, and cost-control measures.

Skills

Executive leadership

Cost control

Rostering

Menu development

Staff mentorship

Food standards

Education

Food Hygiene qualifications

Job description

Sabi Sands is Hiring! A prestigious luxury lodge in the Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga is seeking an experienced Executive/Head Chef to lead its culinary team. This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate hospitality professional to showcase their expertise in fine dining, South African inspired cuisine, and innovative food and wine trends. The role requires strong leadership, administrative skills, and a commitment to maintaining world‑class standards in a 5‑star environment.

Job Requirements & Responsibilities

• Minimum of 3–5 years previous high end Head Chef experience in a 4/5‑star environment (Essential)
• Food Hygiene and professional cooking qualifications (Essential)
• Strong knowledge of food and wine trends, including South African inspired fine dining
• Knowledgeable of all dietary and religious requirements
• Proven ability to create, implement, and maintain control documents and training manuals
• In‑depth knowledge of stock procedures, planning, budgeting, and departmental administration
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor and manage staff effectively
• Excellent administrative skills including rostering, ordering, and cost control
• Valid Driver’s License required
• Menu compilation and implementation aligned with lodge standards
• Systemize and streamline kitchen operations – ordering, preparation, presentation, hygiene, and wastage reduction
• Ensure compliance with food hygiene legislation and maintain impeccable standards
• Manage budgets, monitor profitability, and implement cost‑control measures
• Maintain constant communication between Kitchen, Management, and Front of House teams
• Strong Food Portfolio with your application

Package

• Market related salary negotiable and DOE
• Live in accommodation
• Meals provided

Start Date: ASAP