Head Chef - Country Lodge & Restaurant

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 720,000 - 960,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation assistance

Beautiful natural setting near Nelspru

Professional growth and development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Head Chef for a picturesque lodge near Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will lead culinary operations, create seasonal menus, manage inventory and staff, and ensure top-quality dining aligned with a serene lodge setting.

The role requires a minimum of 5 years in senior culinary leadership, strong cost-control skills, and a drive for exceptional guest experiences in both fine and casual dining environments. Accommodation may be provided.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years as Head Chef or Exec Sous Chef in lodge/hotel/fine-dining.
• Proven expertise in menu development, food costing, inventory, and staff supervision.
• Strong knowledge of seasonal cooking and local ingredients.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a dynamic Nelspruit environment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Willingness to work extended hours, weekends and holidays.
• Experience with fine dining and casual dining service styles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations, including menu planning and food prep for lodge restaurant and events.
• Lead, train, and mentor the kitchen brigade to sustain high performance.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships for quality and cost control.
• Control food costs and adhere to the kitchen budget.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Develop creative seasonal menus featuring local produce and trends.
• Maintain exceptional food quality and presentation.
• Collaborate with lodge management to align dining with guest experience.
• Implement and manage efficient kitchen workflows and scheduling.

Skills

Menu development

Food costing

Inventory management

Staff supervision

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Seasonal cooking

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a picturesque country lodge with a renowned restaurant situated near **Nelspruit**, is seeking an experienced and visionary Head Chef. This role involves leading all culinary operations, from menu creation and kitchen management to staff supervision and quality control. The ideal candidate will have a passion for seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and the ability to create an exceptional dining experience that complements the lodge's serene environment. This is a unique opportunity to shape the culinary identity of a popular destination in **Mpumalanga**.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations, including menu planning, food preparation, cooking, and presentation for the lodge restaurant and any special events.
• Lead, train, and mentor the kitchen brigade, fostering a positive and high-performance culture.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships to ensure quality ingredients and cost-effectiveness.
• Control food costs and maintain budget adherence for the kitchen department.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Develop creative and seasonal menus that highlight local produce and culinary trends.
• Maintain exceptional standards of food quality and presentation.
• Collaborate with lodge management to ensure the dining experience aligns with the overall guest offering.
• Implement and manage efficient kitchen workflows and scheduling.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience as a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef, preferably in a lodge, boutique hotel, or fine-dining restaurant.
• Proven expertise in menu development, food costing, inventory management, and staff supervision.
• Strong knowledge of seasonal cooking and experience with locally sourced ingredients.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a dynamic **Nelspruit** environment and manage diverse culinary demands.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.
• A passion for creating innovative and memorable dining experiences.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, including weekends and holidays, as required.
• Experience with fine dining and casual dining service styles.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work in a beautiful natural setting near **Mpumalanga**.
• Accommodation may be provided or assisted with.
• Creative freedom in menu development and culinary direction.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.
• A supportive and engaging work environment.