Head Chef — Luxury Lodge Dining & Menu Lead

Capsicum Culinary Studio; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Capsicum Culinary Studio seeks a Head Chef for a prestigious ultra-luxury lodge in Kruger Park, Mpumalanga. You will lead the culinary team, oversee all kitchen operations, ensure top quality, hygiene, and presentation, and drive menu development and cost control.

The role requires strong leadership, culinary expertise, sustainability focus, staff mentorship, and the ability to work in a fast-paced luxury hospitality setting with guests' dietary needs often.

Qualifications

• 3-Year Chef Qualification or minimum 4 years’ relevant experience.
• Ability to calculate food costs and manage kitchen budgets.
• Good computer literacy.
• Strong menu planning and food knowledge.
• Understanding of dietary requirements.
• Excellent leadership and staff management skills.
• Knowledge of labour law and disciplinary procedures.
• Strong understanding of hygiene protocols.
• Knowledge of cleaning products and methods.
• Safety procedures and firefighting equipment.
• First Aid training provided by company.
• Excellent personal presentation and grooming.
• Strong communication skills.
• Physically fit and energetic.
• Valid South African work authorization or visa.

Responsibilities

• Manage all kitchen operations in line with company standards and SOPs.
• Ensure exceptional food quality and presentation for all guests.
• Design and implement creative menus and food concepts.
• Oversee staff canteen operations and meal provision.
• Monitor food preparation, hygiene, and kitchen cleanliness.
• Manage food ordering, stock rotation, and waste control.
• Maintain equipment and minimize breakages.
• Interact with guests to enhance their dining experience.
• Control food costs and operate within budgets.
• Implement health, safety, and hygiene procedures.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure smooth operations.
• Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff.
• Support succession planning and staff growth initiatives.
• Contribute to sustainability and conservation objectives.
• Ensure effective shift handovers and communication.
• Prepare pastry and bakery items when required.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Food cost management

Hygiene protocols

Staff management

Communication skills

Dietary requirements

Grooming and presentation

Budgeting

Strong culinary knowledge

Education

3-Year Chef Qualification

4+ years experience

Tools

Computer literacy

Job description

Capsicum Culinary Studio seeks a Head Chef for a prestigious ultra-luxury lodge in Kruger Park, Mpumalanga. You will lead the culinary team, oversee all kitchen operations, ensure top quality, hygiene, and presentation, and drive menu development and cost control.

The role requires strong leadership, culinary expertise, sustainability focus, staff mentorship, and the ability to work in a fast-paced luxury hospitality setting with guests' dietary needs often.