Head Chef - Fine Dining

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Prestigious kitchen in George

Creative freedom in menu design

Professional growth opportunities

Rewarding culinary career

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Head Chef for a renowned fine-dining restaurant in George, Western Cape. You will lead a talented culinary team, shape the menu, and maintain the highest standards of quality and presentation.

You will manage kitchen operations, control costs, collaborate with front-of-house, and mentor staff to deliver exceptional guest experiences in a fast-paced setting. This role offers creative freedom, growth opportunities, and the chance to showcase modern cuisine with classic

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role in a fine-dining establishment.
• Expertise in modern cuisine with strong classical techniques.
• Leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage food costs, inventory, and budgets.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Culinary degree or equivalent certification preferred.
• Experience with fresh, seasonal, local produce (Western Cape ideal).
• Excellent palate and flavor profiling.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations, including staff supervision and scheduling.
• Develop seasonal, fine-dining menu concepts.
• Ensure consistent dish quality, presentation, and flavors.
• Control food costs, inventory, and supplier procurement.
• Maintain strict food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards.
• Collaborate with front-of-house for seamless service.
• Foster a positive, efficient kitchen culture.
• Introduce innovative culinary techniques and dishes.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and upkeep.
• Manage supplier relationships and inventory checks.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Kitchen management

Staff supervision

Food cost control

Food safety

Communication

Creativity

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned fine-dining restaurant situated in the picturesque coastal city of George, Western Cape, is seeking an innovative and highly skilled Head Chef. This is a unique opportunity to lead a talented culinary team and craft exceptional gastronomic experiences for discerning patrons. The successful candidate will be instrumental in menu development, kitchen management, and maintaining the highest standards of food quality and presentation. If you possess a creative flair and a dedication to culinary excellence, this role in George is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the kitchen operations, including staff supervision, training, and scheduling.
• Develop and execute creative, seasonal menus that align with the restaurant's fine-dining concept.
• Ensure consistent quality of dishes, presentation, and flavor profiles.
• Manage food costs, inventory, and procurement of high-quality ingredients.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards.
• Collaborate with the front-of-house team to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and efficient working environment in the kitchen.
• Innovate and introduce new culinary techniques and dishes.
• Conduct regular inventory checks and manage supplier relationships.
• Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of kitchen equipment.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role in a fine-dining establishment.
• Demonstrated expertise in modern cuisine and a strong understanding of classical techniques.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to manage food costs, inventory, and budgets effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification is strongly preferred.
• Creativity and passion for developing innovative dishes.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
• Experience working with fresh, seasonal, and local produce, ideally within the Western Cape.
• Excellent palate and understanding of flavor profiles.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary package of ZAR.
• The opportunity to lead a prestigious kitchen in George.
• Creative freedom in menu design and culinary innovation.
• Opportunities for professional growth and recognition.
• A stimulating and rewarding culinary career.