Head Chef

Staff Unlimited Recruitment; Makhanda; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 868,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-run lodge in Makhanda is seeking a talented Head Chef to lead the culinary team. The successful candidate will be responsible for creating exceptional dining experiences, managing kitchen operations, and maintaining high food quality standards. An ideal candidate will have experience in a similar role and a culinary degree. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic environment focused on high standards and guest satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a high-quality hospitality setting.
• Strong knowledge of various cooking techniques, cuisines, and dietary needs.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and prepare seasonal menus while accommodating dietary restrictions.
• Manage kitchen operations and supervise kitchen staff.
• Maintain high standards of food quality and presentation.
• Oversee inventory control and minimize costs.
• Engage with guests for feedback and ensure exceptional service.
• Ensure adherence to local health and safety regulations.

Skills

Leadership ability

Creativity in menu development

Knowledge of cooking techniques

Communication skills

Passion for wildlife and conservation

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent qualification

Job description

Overview

Our Client, a family-run lodge, is seeking a talented and passionate Head Chef to lead our culinary team. The Head Chef will be responsible for creating exceptional dining experiences for our guests while ensuring the highest standards of food quality, hygiene, and presentation. This role requires a strong leadership presence and creativity in menu development.

Responsibilities

• Designing and preparing seasonal menus and accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences.
• Managing kitchen operations, including supervising and training kitchen staff, scheduling, and ensuring efficient workflow.
• Maintaining high standards of food quality, taste, and presentation in all dishes.
• Overseeing inventory control, including ordering, storage, and waste management, while minimizing costs.
• Providing exceptional service and engaging with guests to receive feedback.
• Ensure the kitchen adheres to all local health and safety regulations, implementing best practices for food safety and hygiene.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a high-quality restaurant, lodge or hospitality setting.
• Culinary degree or equivalent qualification is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of various cooking techniques, cuisines, and dietary needs.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Passion for wildlife and conservation, with an understanding of the safari camp experience is a plus.

Should meet the above criteria, we invite you to apply directly to the advertisement. Should you not hear back from us within 2 weeks of application, kindly consider your application as unsuccessful.