Head Chef

Findojobs South Africa; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A hospitality management company is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead kitchen operations, manage staff training, and ensure high standards of food preparation. The ideal candidate will oversee kitchen administration and maintain a guest-focused approach while driving performance and creativity in menu development. This role demands excellent communication and leadership skills to foster a successful kitchen environment.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of food preparation and kitchen hygiene.
• Excellent attention to detail and hygiene principles.
• Ability to work accurately under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Manage kitchen staff to ensure high food preparation standards.
• Oversee kitchen administration and control costs.
• Implement and monitor food & menu preparation.

Skills

Strong knowledge of food preparation

Understanding of dietary and religious requirements

Knowledge of menu development

Effective time management

Strong communication skills

Leadership skills

Job description

The Head Chef is responsible for managing, leading, and training the kitchen staff in line with the property's food directive, ensuring food preparation of the highest standard.

Kitchen Operations & Administration

• Effective kitchen administration to minimize shortages and wastage, ensuring robust stock control. Take full responsibility for shortages, wastage, and variances.
• Meet mandated costs through creativity and strong stock and accounting systems.
• Perform effective asset management to ensure all company assets are maintained in excellent condition.
• Review and analyze monthly accounts, highlight problem areas, and ensure appropriate corrective actions.
• Take full responsibility for the department's profitability.
• Ensure the highest standards of kitchen cleanliness and hygiene.
• Maintain fridges and stores to ensure they are clean and stocked at appropriate levels.
• Implement, monitor, and maintain communication between the kitchen, management, and front-of-house staff.
• Ensure meals and functions are set up to standards.
• Control staff food costs, quality, and quantity.
• Attend meetings as required.

Training, Development & Mentorship

• Identify and develop individuals with potential for growth within the group.
• Implement and document training, utilizing internal and external trainers to ensure continuous learning.
• Provide effective leadership through professional management and encouragement, including mediation.
• Drive performance management and succession planning processes.
• Conduct regular, meaningful performance appraisals, ensuring effective communication and follow-up on developmental plans.

Food & Menu Preparation

• Implement menus across outlets and properties.
• Quality check dishes for taste and presentation to ensure high standards.
• Control portion sizes and plating to prevent wastage and maintain quality.
• Ensure all food is prepared to the highest standards efficiently.

Requirements - Qualifications and Skills

• Strong knowledge of food preparation and kitchen hygiene.
• Understanding of dietary and religious requirements.
• Knowledge of menu development and current market trends.
• Understanding of stock procedures and control.
• Knowledge of product sourcing and supply chain management.
• Skills in planning, budgeting, and departmental administration.
• Ability to create and maintain control documents and training manuals.
• Understanding of accounting principles, including P&L statements and forecasts.
• Excellent attention to detail and hygiene principles.
• Guest-focused approach, embodying the property's ethos to deliver exceptional experiences.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with honest communication practices.
• Team-oriented with a positive attitude, enthusiasm, and emotional control.
• Effective time management, self-discipline, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Proactive with initiative and creative flair.
• Loyal, adaptable, and flexible.
• Ability to work accurately under pressure.
• People skills, including tolerance, patience, and care.
• Leadership skills with a passion for development and skills transfer.

Maximizing Impact as a Team Member

• Attention to detail.
• Guest-focused philosophy.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Positive attitude and enthusiasm.
• Time management and solution-seeking skills.
• Proactive and creative approach.
• Loyal and adaptable.
• Work accurately under pressure.
• People skills, including tolerance, patience, and openness to feedback.

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