Head Chef

Headhunters; Oos-Kaap; Presencial; ZAR 1.000.000 - 1.600.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

Headhunters is seeking a seasoned culinary leader to set direction for kitchen and stewarding operations, driving menu innovation and high food safety standards. You will lead a high-performing team, develop standard recipes, and ensure quality in production and presentation.

You will also oversee budgeting, procurement, and staff development, while maintaining guest satisfaction and online reputation for outstanding culinary offerings.

Formación

• Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Culinary Arts.
• Certification in Food Safety (e.g., HACCP).
• Minimum of 8 years in culinary leadership.
• Microsoft Office and procurement software.

Responsabilidades

• Lead the strategic direction, annual plans, and standards for the kitchen and stewarding operations.
• Develop menus that are innovative, culturally diverse, and responsive to guest preferences and dietary needs.
• Create and document standard recipes to ensure consistency and quality in food production and presentation.
• Ensure continuous innovation in culinary offerings, aligned with current food trends and seasonal ingredients.
• Ensure all food is prepared in accordance with high food safety standards, including proper storage, processing, and disposal.
• Collaborate with stewarding to develop and implement cleaning and deep-cleaning schedules.

Conocimientos

Culinary leadership

Leadership

Educación

Bachelor’s/ Diploma in Culinary Arts

Herramientas

Microsoft Office

Procurement software

Descripción del empleo

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree and/or Diploma in Culinary Arts.
• Certification in Food Safety (e.g., HACCP).
• Minimum of 8 years in culinary leadership.
• Microsoft Office and procurement software.

Responsibilities but not limited to:

• Lead the strategic direction, annual plans, and standards for the kitchen and stewarding operations.
• Develop menus that are innovative, culturally diverse, and responsive to guest preferences and dietary needs.
• Create and document standard recipes to ensure consistency and quality in food production and presentation.
• Ensure continuous innovation in culinary offerings, aligned with current food trends and seasonal ingredients.
• Ensure all food is prepared in accordance with high food safety standards, including proper storage, processing, and disposal.
• Collaborate with stewarding to develop and implement cleaning and deep-cleaning schedules.
• Oversee procurement, supporting local and sustainable sourcing where possible.
• Ensure timely and cost-effective ordering of food supplies in accordance with menu plans and forecasted guest numbers.
• Work with Human Resources to recruit, train, and develop a high-performing culinary team.
• Monitor staff performance and provide continuous coaching, feedback, and performance reviews.
• Prepare annual department budgets, CAPEX/OPEX proposals, and manage food costs within set targets.
• Deputise for the General Manager when required, taking full responsibility for operational leadership.
• Ensure culinary services meet and exceed guest expectations.
• Maintain high guest satisfaction and online reputation through excellent food offerings and responsive service.
• Exhibit courteous and professional conduct with guests at all times.
• Set and monitor team and individual KPIs aligned with departmental goals.
• Develop and implement structured onboarding and ongoing training programs, with a focus on food safety and hygiene.
• Develop and enforce high culinary standards across all kitchen operations.
• Lead internal audits and act swiftly on any quality lapses.
• Continuously seek improvements to raise standards and efficiencies.
• Manage the kitchen and stewarding budgets effectively, ensuring cost control and high-quality output.
• Monitor and control food cost percentages and implement waste reduction initiatives.
• Develop stock control systems and ensure compliance with purchasing policies.
• Ensure all kitchen and stewarding equipment is maintained in excellent condition.
• Work with Technical Services and Stewarding to establish and oversee maintenance and cleaning schedules.
• Ensure full compliance with local legislation and company policies across food safety, health, and hygiene.
• Maintain up-to-date health certification for all kitchen staff.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback within two weeks of applying, please consider your application unsuccessful.