Executive Sous Chef

Kendrick Recruitment; Bela-Bela; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury hospitality firm is seeking an Executive Sous Chef for a prestigious lodge in Bela Bela, South Africa. The candidate must have 5-star kitchen experience and will lead a team while ensuring exceptional quality and hygiene standards. This role involves cooking, mentoring, and being hands-on in daily kitchen operations. Competitive salary offered, with live-in accommodation available.

Qualifications

• Proven 5-star kitchen experience required.
• Experience in leading and mentoring a culinary team.
• Strong knowledge of kitchen sections and food hygiene practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and supervise kitchen staff.
• Lead cooking and training of the kitchen team.
• Assist with menu planning and stock control.
• Ensure exceptional food quality and presentation.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in compliance with food safety.

Skills

5-star kitchen experience

Team leadership

Food quality standards

Kitchen operations

Time management

Strong communication

Job description

Executive Sous Chef – Luxury Lodge | Bela Bela

Location : Bela Bela

Property Type : Luxury Lodge

Salary : R23,000 – R25,000 Negotiable DOE | Live-In

Position Overview

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a skilled Executive Sous Chef to join a prestigious luxury lodge in Bela Bela. The successful candidate will have proven 5-star kitchen experience and be confident in leading and mentoring a team, ensuring the highest culinary and hygiene standards are consistently maintained. This position requires a hands‑on professional who is passionate about food quality, kitchen operations, and team development.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and supervise kitchen staff as required.
• Spend the majority of time actively cooking and training the team on menus.
• Assist the Executive Chef with menu planning, stock control, and management of supplies.
• Ensure that all food produced is of exceptional quality and presentation.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of all workstations in compliance with food safety standards.
• Support and uphold all kitchen systems, standards, and service to the highest level.
• Assist in managing and directing all aspects of daily kitchen operations.
• Foster teamwork and a positive working environment among all kitchen personnel.
• Contribute to staff development through consistent training, feedback, and performance management.

Core Competencies

• Strong knowledge of all kitchen sections.
• Ability to produce high‑quality dishes with attention to detail.
• Sound decision‑making skills and initiative.
• Ability to work efficiently under limited supervision.
• Understanding of health, safety, and basic food hygiene practices.
• Excellent time management and organisational abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to quality, cleanliness, and consistency.

Ability to multitask and perform under pressure.

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented and motivated culinary professional to advance their career within a luxury hospitality environment, contributing to the success of a high‑performing kitchen team.