Executive Sous Chef

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 720,000 - 960,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Pension fund

Medical aid

Meals provided

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an Executive Sous Chef for a prestigious fine dining restaurant in Centurion, Gauteng. The role partners with the Head Chef to lead a busy kitchen, maintain impeccable quality, and drive culinary innovation in a high-end dining environment.

The ideal candidate will hold a formal culinary qualification, have at least five years in professional kitchens with two in a leadership role, and excel in menu development, cost control and team leadership.

Qualifications

• Formal culinary qualification or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum 5 years in professional kitchens, with 2+ in leadership.
• Fine dining expertise with strong food costing and inventory control.
• Proven leadership, communication, and team-building abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef in menu development and execution.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food preparation, presentation and quality.
• Manage inventory, ordering, and stock control to minimize waste and control costs.
• Lead, train, and mentor junior kitchen staff in a positive, productive environment.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation and hygiene regulations (HACCP).
• Contribute to menu planning, recipe development and specials creation.
• Monitor food production for consistency and adherence to recipes.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure cleanliness and proper functioning.
• Step in for Head Chef as needed, demonstrating leadership and culinary expertise.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team-building

Creativity

Pressure management

Education

Culinary qualification (City & Guilds / Diploma)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly-regarded fine dining restaurant in Centurion, Gauteng, is looking for an exceptional Executive Sous Chef to join their culinary team. This is a pivotal role, working closely with the Head Chef to lead kitchen operations, maintain impeccable quality standards, and foster a creative and efficient kitchen environment. The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for gastronomy, a refined palate, and a proven ability to manage and inspire a busy kitchen brigade. This opportunity is perfect for a culinary artist looking to make a significant contribution to the vibrant Centurion, Gauteng dining scene.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in all aspects of kitchen management, including menu development and execution.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food preparation, presentation, and quality.
• Manage inventory, ordering, and stock control to minimize waste and control costs.
• Lead, train, and mentor junior kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations.
• Contribute to menu planning, recipe development, and the creation of specials.
• Monitor food production, ensuring consistency and adherence to recipes.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure proper functioning and cleanliness.
• Step in for the Head Chef as needed, demonstrating leadership and culinary expertise.

Requirements

• Formal culinary qualification (e.g., City & Guilds, diploma) or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in professional kitchens, with at least 2 years in a sous chef or similar leadership role.
• Expertise in various cooking techniques and cuisines, with a focus on fine dining.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory management, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards (e.g., HACCP).
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Creativity and a passion for culinary innovation.
• Experience working within the Centurion, Gauteng culinary scene is advantageous.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional benefits include performance bonuses, a contributory pension fund, and comprehensive medical aid. Employees will benefit from a stimulating and creative work environment, opportunities for professional growth and skill development, and exposure to high-caliber culinary experiences within Centurion, Gauteng. Meals are provided during shifts.