Head Chef

Evolution Recruitment; Noordwes; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Evolution Recruitment is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the culinary operation of a luxury safari lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve. This hands-on role requires creativity, guest-focused dining, and strong leadership in a high-end hospitality setting.

You will design menus, manage food costs, ensure food safety, and mentor a kitchen team to deliver exceptional dining experiences for discerning guests in a remote wildlife lodge.

Qualifications

• Matric / Grade 12 is required.
• Culinary qualification or Diploma in Culinary Arts / Hospitality Management.
• Minimum 5–7 years' professional kitchen experience, with leadership roles (Senior Sous Chef/Head Chef).
• Proven experience managing a kitchen team within a luxury lodge, safari property, hotel or high‑end restaurant.
• Strong menu planning and food costing experience.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, hygiene and kitchen best practices.
• Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.
• Creative approach to menu development and guest dining.
• Hands‑on ability to work in a demanding hospitality environment.
• Flexibility to work weekends, evenings and public holidays.
• Genuine passion for hospitality, food and guest experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Food costing

Food safety

Education

Matric / Grade 12

Diploma in Culinary Arts / Hospitality Management

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead the culinary operation of a luxury safari lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve. This is an exciting opportunity for a creative and hands‑on culinary professional who is passionate about deliv...

• Matric / Grade 12.

• Relevant Culinary qualification or Diploma in Culinary Arts / Hospitality Management.

• Minimum 5–7 years' professional kitchen experience, with previous experience in a Senior Sous Chef, Head Chef or similar leadership position.

• Proven experience managing a kitchen team within a luxury lodge, safari property, hotel or high‑end restaurant environment.

• Strong menu planning and food costing experience.

• Excellent knowledge of food safety, hygiene and kitchen best practices.

• Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.

• Creative approach to menu development and guest dining.

• Ability to work hands‑on within a demanding hospitality environment.

• Flexibility to work weekends, evenings and public holidays.

• A genuine passion for hospitality, food and delivering exceptional guest experiences.