Head Chef - Fine Dining

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Complimentary meals during shifts

Staff discounts

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 presents an opportunity for a visionary Head Chef to lead a renowned upscale restaurant in Tembisa. The role demands a high level of culinary artistry, menu development, staff leadership, and cost-control oversight to sustain a fine-dining experience.

You will manage all kitchen operations, mentor staff, uphold strict hygiene standards, and collaborate on menu costing and supplier relations to drive profitability while maintaining an exceptional guest experience.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in professional kitchens with 3+ years in Head Chef/Executive Sous Chef in fine dining.
• Proven ability in menu creation, recipe development, and culinary innovation.
• Extensive knowledge of plating, food preparation techniques, and presentation standards.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Understanding of cost control, inventory management, and staff scheduling.
• Mandatory HACCP/food safety certification and a culinary degree from a recognized institution.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and implement innovative fine-dining menus reflecting seasonal ingredients.
• Manage day-to-day kitchen operations to ensure smooth service during peak hours.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff to foster creativity and high standards.
• Oversee inventory, ordering, receiving, and stock control to minimize waste and costs.
• Ensure adherence to HACCP, hygiene, and safety standards across the kitchen.
• Collaborate with management on menu costing, pricing, and financial performance.
• Develop supplier relationships to source quality ingredients and negotiate terms.
• Participate in creating special event menus and culinary experiences.

Skills

Menu design

Leadership

Food safety (HACCP)

Team management

Communication

Education

Culinary degree

HACCP certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned upscale restaurant located in the heart of Tembisa, is seeking an exceptional and visionary Head Chef to lead their culinary team. This is an unparalleled opportunity to take the helm of a kitchen renowned for its exquisite fine dining experience and innovative approach to South African cuisine. The Head Chef will be responsible for all aspects of kitchen operations, from menu development and food preparation to staff management and inventory control. You will be expected to maintain the highest standards of quality, creativity, and hygiene, while also driving profitability and upholding the restaurant's esteemed reputation. The ideal candidate is a passionate culinary artist with a deep understanding of global and local gastronomic trends, capable of inspiring a team to achieve culinary excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and implement innovative menus that reflect seasonal ingredients and current culinary trends, with a focus on fine dining.
• Manage all day-to-day culinary operations of the kitchen, ensuring smooth service delivery during peak hours.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment that encourages creativity and skill development.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering supplies, receiving deliveries, and maintaining stock levels to minimize waste and control costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards (HACCP compliant).
• Collaborate with the restaurant management team on menu costing, pricing, and overall financial performance of the kitchen.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients.
• Actively participate in the creation of special event menus and culinary experiences.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in professional kitchens, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role in a fine dining establishment.
• Proven expertise in menu creation, recipe development, and culinary innovation.
• Extensive knowledge of food preparation techniques, plating, and presentation standards.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Excellent understanding of kitchen operations, including cost control, inventory management, and staff scheduling.
• Certification in Food Safety and Hygiene (e.g., HACCP) is mandatory.
• A culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification from a recognized institution is essential.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• A passion for food and a commitment to culinary excellence.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary of R .
• Opportunity to lead a prestigious kitchen in Tembisa.
• Full-time employment with a stable and reputable establishment.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Complimentary meals during shifts and staff discounts.
• Professional development opportunities within the culinary arts.
• A supportive and collaborative kitchen culture.