Executive Sous Chef

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation or housing allowance

Medical aid

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Executive Sous Chef for a luxury lodge in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will support the Head Chef in leading culinary operations, developing menus and maintaining top food quality and presentation.

The role calls for a strong background in fine dining, menu development, staff training, and adherence to stringent food safety standards to ensure an exceptional guest dining experience.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in a professional kitchen with at least 2 years in a Sous Chef role or equivalent.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training.
• Proven experience in fine dining or high‑end catering.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, ingredients and presentation styles.
• Excellent leadership, communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency and quality.
• Prepare and cook high‑quality dishes according to established recipes and standards.
• Contribute to menu planning, recipe development and food cost management.
• Supervise and mentor junior kitchen staff, providing training and guidance.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation and hygiene regulations.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation and ordering of ingredients.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and related areas.
• Collaborate with F&B team members to ensure seamless service.
• Conduct food quality checks and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Support the Head Chef in achieving departmental goals and objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Under pressure

Time management

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a luxury lodge situated in the scenic environs of Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Executive Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in leading their culinary operations. This position is ideal for a seasoned professional with a strong background in fine dining and a talent for creating exquisite dishes. The Executive Sous Chef will be instrumental in menu development, kitchen management, staff training, and maintaining the highest standards of food quality and presentation. You will work closely with the Head Chef to uphold the lodge's reputation for gastronomic excellence and ensure a memorable dining experience for all guests. This role demands creativity, precision, and a commitment to culinary artistry.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency and quality.
• Prepare and cook high-quality dishes according to established recipes and standards.
• Contribute to menu planning, recipe development, and food cost management.
• Supervise and mentor junior kitchen staff, providing training and guidance.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation, and ordering of ingredients.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and all related areas.
• Collaborate with other F&B team members to ensure seamless service.
• Assist in conducting food quality checks and implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Support the Head Chef in achieving departmental goals and objectives.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a professional kitchen, with at least 2 years in a Sous Chef role or equivalent.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training.
• Proven experience in fine dining or high‑end catering.
• Strong knowledge of various cooking techniques, ingredients, and presentation styles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in kitchen hygiene and safety standards.
• A passion for food and dedication to culinary excellence.
• Must be flexible with working hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package and benefits, including accommodation or a housing allowance, and medical aid.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within a beautiful lodge setting.
• Enjoy staff meals and discounts on lodge services.
• This is a fantastic chance to showcase your culinary talents near Nelspruit .