Head Chef

Believe Resourcing; Johannesburg, Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A culinary recruitment firm is seeking a skilled Head Chef to manage operations across multiple high-end restaurant outlets. The candidate will lead the kitchen team, oversee menu design, and ensure exceptional food quality. A minimum of two years of experience in a luxury restaurant is required, along with strong leadership and communication skills. This role offers a salary range of R35,000 – R50,000.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years’ experience as a Head Chef in a fine-dining or luxury restaurant environment.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and inspire a culinary team.
• Strong understanding of food costings, inventory, and financial controls.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the kitchen team to ensure exceptional food quality and presentation.
• Oversee all kitchen operations including menu design, stock control, and cost management.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, safety, and kitchen organisation.

Skills

Leadership skills

Team management

Creativity in menu design

Excellent organizational skills

Communication skills

Job description

Overview

Our client is looking for an innovative and highly skilled Head Chef to lead the culinary operations across multiple high-end restaurant outlets. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of modern culinary trends, and the ability to manage a diverse team in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the kitchen team to ensure exceptional food quality and presentation.
• Oversee all kitchen operations including menu design, stock control, and cost management.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, safety, and kitchen organisation.
• Implement training and development programmes for kitchen staff to encourage growth and excellence.
• Collaborate with senior management to develop seasonal menus and special event offerings.
• Control kitchen budgets and ensure profitability through efficient cost and waste management.

Requirements

• Minimum of two years’ experience as a Head Chef in a fine-dining or luxury restaurant environment.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and inspire a culinary team.
• Strong understanding of food costings, inventory, and financial controls.
• Creative approach to menu design and ingredient sourcing.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Passion for quality, consistency, and innovation in cuisine.

Location: Various Restaurants (All Areas)   Salary: R35,000 – R50,000 (Negotiable)