Head Chef

Hospitality Hire; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A premium restaurant in Johannesburg is seeking a Head Chef to lead a culinary team delivering top-quality à la carte and buffet offerings. The ideal candidate will possess a culinary qualification and a minimum of 2 years' experience managing a kitchen. Exceptional communication and leadership skills are required, alongside strict adherence to food safety standards. Join a dynamic team and contribute to innovative menu development. Competitive compensation offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience as Head Chef in a fast-paced, premium restaurant.
• Proven ability to manage, mentor, and train a kitchen team.
• Strong understanding of GP%, food margins, and stock control.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team to deliver premium à la carte and buffet offerings.
• Innovate and update seasonal menus in collaboration with management.
• Ensure hygiene, cleanliness, and food safety standards are met.

Skills

Food presentation

Kitchen management

Hygiene standards enforcement

Menu costing

Communication skills

Education

Diploma or formal culinary qualification

Valid food safety and hygiene certification

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in delivering premium à la carte and buffet offerings
• Drive high-quality food presentation across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and room service
• Ensure hygiene, cleanliness, and food safety standards are consistently met
• Perform regular stock takes, manage purchasing, and liaise with suppliers
• Innovate and update seasonal menus in collaboration with management
• Monitor kitchen equipment and maintenance needs
• Oversee kitchen scheduling in line with budget and operational forecasts
• Enforce discipline, hygiene, grooming, and performance standards across the team
• Maintain accurate training records and support team growth
• Collaborate on F&B planning and attend operational meetings

Minimum Requirements

• Diploma or formal culinary qualification from a recognised institution
• Valid food safety and hygiene certification
• First aid and fire safety training (advantageous)
• Minimum 2 years experience as Head Chef in a fast-paced, premium restaurant
• Proven ability to manage, mentor, and train a kitchen team
• Strong understanding of GP%, food margins, stock control, and menu costing
• South African citizenship or valid residency (no work permits offered)
• Excellent communication, planning, and leadership skills

Only shortlisted candidates who meet the minimum criteria will be contacted.