Executive Sous Chef - Fine Dining

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Health benefits

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking an Executive Sous Chef to lead daily kitchen operations, drive menu development, and uphold top-quality cuisine. You will mentor staff, manage inventory and costs, and collaborate with front-of-house to ensure exceptional guest experiences.

Ideal candidates bring high-volume, fine-dining experience, formal culinary education, and a passion for culinary innovation.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef in high-volume settings.
• Formal culinary education or equivalent professional training.
• Exposure to international cuisines and plating styles.
• Strong leadership and ability to mentor staff.
• Solid understanding of HACCP and food safety standards.
• Experience with cost control, inventory, and budgeting.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Creative approach to menu planning and innovation.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist Executive Chef with daily kitchen operations, menu planning, and recipe development.
• Supervise and train kitchen staff, enforcing recipes and standards.
• Oversee inventory, stock rotation, and food ordering to control costs.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and sanitation regulations.
• Maintain high standards of presentation, taste, and quality.
• Collaborate with front-of-house to ensure seamless service.
• Contribute to menu engineering and new dish development.
• Oversee banquets, private events, and à la carte service as required.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.

Skills

Sous Chef experience

Leadership

Food safety HACCP

Inventory management

Budget management

Time management

Menu development

Cooking techniques

Communication

Education

Formal culinary education

Tools

None

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Executive Sous Chef to join their prestigious culinary team in the vibrant city of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a renowned establishment, known for its exquisite cuisine and impeccable service. The successful candidate will work closely with the Executive Chef to uphold the highest standards of food preparation, kitchen management, and menu innovation. This role demands a creative flair, exceptional leadership skills, and a deep understanding of culinary techniques. You will be instrumental in driving culinary excellence and ensuring a memorable dining experience for our client's discerning patrons. The position is based in Pietermaritzburg , offering a dynamic work environment within the heart of KwaZulu-Natal's culinary scene.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in the daily operations of the kitchen, including menu planning, recipe development, and food costing.
• Supervise and train kitchen staff, ensuring adherence to established recipes, techniques, and quality standards.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation, and ordering of food supplies to minimize waste and control costs.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the kitchen environment.
• Maintain the highest standards of food presentation, taste, and quality across all dishes served.
• Collaborate with the front-of-house team to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
• Contribute to menu engineering and the development of new, innovative dishes that align with current culinary trends and our client's brand.
• Oversee food preparation for banquets, private events, and à la carte service.
• Conduct regular performance reviews for kitchen staff and provide constructive feedback.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef or equivalent role within a high-volume, fine-dining establishment.
• Formal culinary education or equivalent professional experience.
• In-depth knowledge of various international cuisines, cooking techniques, and presentation styles.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and inspire kitchen staff.
• Excellent understanding of food safety, HACCP, and sanitation principles.
• Proficiency in inventory management, cost control, and budget management.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Creative and innovative approach to culinary arts, with a passion for quality ingredients.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by business needs in Pietermaritzburg .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience. In addition, you will enjoy professional development opportunities within a respected culinary group. The role provides a chance to work with top-tier ingredients and state-of-the-art kitchen facilities. You will be part of a supportive and dynamic team, contributing to an award-winning dining experience in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . We also offer health benefits and opportunities for career advancement within our client's expanding portfolio. This is a chance to make a significant impact on the culinary landscape.