Executive Sous Chef — Lead Fine-Dining Kitchen & Innovation

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

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.