Head Chef - 5-Star Boutique Hotel & Spa - Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
Kendrick Recruitment is searching for a talented, thoughtful and hands‑on Head Chef for a celebrated 5-star boutique hotel and spa in the heart of Plettenberg Bay, forming part of a respected South African boutique hospitality group with a portfolio of distinctive properties. The culinary philosophy here is beautifully straightforward: Simple. Honest. Delicious. This is a role for a chef who can balance creativity with structure, excellence with efficiency and high standards with a grounded, people‑focused approach. You will lead the full kitchen operation, develop seasonal locally inspired menus and build a kitchen culture that reflects the warmth and character of the property. Please note: Plettenberg Bay or Garden Route based candidates are strongly preferred. This is a live‑out position. Start date is immediate.
Minimum Requirements:
- Formal culinary qualification from a recognised institution - essential
- Minimum 3 years' experience in a Head Chef or senior Sous Chef role within luxury or boutique hospitality - essential
- Proven ability to create and execute high-quality seasonal, locally inspired menus
- Strong kitchen leadership and team management experience
- Solid financial acumen including food cost control, stock management and supplier relationships
- Experience with menu costing and contributing to pricing strategy
- Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene and health compliance
- Hands‑on; visible and operationally present in the kitchen
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Computer literate - TallOrder experience advantageous
- Passionate about sustainable sourcing and building relationships with local suppliers
- Warm; grounded, confident and collaborative - without ego
- Stable work history with contactable references and a strong food portfolio
Key Responsibilities:
Culinary Leadership
- Develop and execute seasonal, locally inspired menus aligned to the property's food philosophy
- Maintain exceptional standards of food quality, presentation and consistency across all meal periods
- Continuously evolve the culinary offering through innovation and food trend awareness
- Work collaboratively with the Group Food Ambassador and management team on brand alignment
Team Leadership
- Lead; mentor and develop the full kitchen team
- Build a strong, respectful and high‑performing kitchen culture
- Support recruitment, training and performance management
- Manage staffing levels and scheduling in line with operational requirements
Kitchen Operations
- Lead the full day-to-day kitchen operation ensuring smooth, efficient service delivery
- Oversee preparation, service, hygiene and quality control across all service periods
- Implement and maintain effective kitchen systems and workflows
- Maintain strict adherence to food safety and health regulations
Financial & Commercial Management
- Manage food costs, margins and wastage in line with budget and profitability targets
- Oversee stock control, procurement and supplier relationships
- Ensure accurate menu costing and contribute to pricing strategies
- Identify opportunities to enhance revenue through culinary experiences and special events
Guest Experience & Sustainability
- Ensure every dining experience reflects the character and standards of the property
- Collaborate with FOH teams for seamless service delivery
- Contribute to special events, activations and bespoke guest experiences
- Build relationships with local suppliers and drive sustainable sourcing practices
Package:
Gross Salary: R30,000 to R40,000 per month (DOE)
Live‑out position - Plettenberg Bay
Start date: Immediate/ASAP