Head Chef

Career Custodians; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned hotel management company in Cape Town is seeking a Kitchen Manager to oversee culinary operations, ensure high-quality menu development, and maintain excellent guest satisfaction. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience in a similar role within a 4 or 5-star hotel and possess strong leadership skills. This position offers competitive remuneration and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years in a similar role within a 4 / 5-star hotel.
• Knowledge of all aspects of hotel kitchen operations.

Responsibilities

• Train, develop, and motivate kitchen staff.
• Enforce hygiene and safety protocols.
• Lead by example with professionalism and positive conduct.
• Manage kitchen supervisors' performance and discipline.

Skills

Verbal Communication

Analytical Thinking

Attention to Detail

Team Collaboration

Education

Matric & relevant Culinary Qualification

Job description

SUMMARY

Responsible for developing and implementing high-quality, innovative menus and recipes that reflect the property's culinary identity within price guidelines set by Group Support Services. Ensures guest satisfaction through excellent kitchen hygiene, stock and waste control, and a well-trained team.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

QUALIFICATION : Matric & relevant Culinary Qualification

EXPERIENCE : At least 2 years in a similar role within a 4 / 5-star hotel

KNOWLEDGE : All aspects of hotel kitchen operations

COMPETENCIES

Communication : Verbal, comprehension

Cognition : Analysis, decision-making

Personal Effectiveness : Self-management, stress tolerance, attention to detail

Teamwork & Leadership : Collaboration, influencing others

Management : Strategic vision, business alignment

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Management

Train, develop, and motivate kitchen staff

Enforce hygiene and safety protocols

Lead by example with professionalism and positive conduct

Oversee all culinary operations for smooth service delivery

Set performance standards for guest satisfaction

Manage kitchen supervisors : coaching, performance, discipline

Ensure clear communication across kitchen and departments

Share and implement Group Support updates

Report operational incidents that may impact other properties

Ensure proper storage and inventory standards

Operations

Develop consistent, high-quality recipes and menus aligned with the property’s brand and pricing

Maintain comprehensive hygiene practices

Address guest complaints promptly and professionally

Administration

Order stock timeously to prevent shortages and waste

Source best-value products

Maintain food labelling and storage standards

Financial

Implement waste management to control costs

Keep food costs within budget

Price menus competitively based on market and compset

Adhere to purchase order protocols

Manage headcount and productivity to align with budget

Human Resources

Oversee recruitment and onboarding in line with procedures

Conduct training, coaching, and performance reviews

Submit accurate HR documentation on time

Enforce dress code and hygiene standards

Apply fair discipline practices

Maintain up-to-date staff files

GENERAL

Participate in Duty and Night Manager shifts as required

Be available telephonically and via email at all times

Duties may evolve with business and operational needs

REVIEW CRITERIA

Professional appearance

Staff communication

Financial performance

Job knowledge

Urgency and initiative

Problem-solving ability