Head Chef, Luxury Safari Lodge Kitchen Leader

Kendrick Recruitment; Sabie; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at a luxury safari game reserve in the Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga. You will drive culinary standards, mentor a dedicated team and ensure flawless service in a remote lodge setting.

The role requires a passion for high-end dining, strong leadership, menu development, food hygiene and cost control, with the ability to adapt to guest dietary needs and busy service periods.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a luxury lodge/hotel or safari environment.
• Strong leadership and kitchen management skills.
• Passion for food, hospitality and delivering exceptional dining experiences.
• Excellent knowledge of food preparation, presentation and modern culinary techniques.
• Strong menu planning and recipe development abilities.
• Experience with stock control, ordering and kitchen cost management.
• Excellent understanding of food hygiene and health and safety requirements.
• Ability to lead, motivate and develop a diverse kitchen team.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Flexibility to work weekends, public holidays and lodge-specific shifts.

Responsibilities

• Take overall responsibility for kitchen operation and culinary standards.
• Lead, mentor and manage the kitchen team for a professional and productive environment.
• Plan and prepare high-quality meals reflecting luxury safari standards.
• Oversee menu planning, food presentation and cost control.
• Manage stock, ordering and kitchen costs with close attention to hygiene and safety.
• Collaborate with lodge management to ensure seamless guest experiences.
• Be hands-on during busy service periods and cater to dietary requirements.

Skills

Head Chef experience

Senior Sous Chef experience

Leadership

Kitchen management

Food preparation

Menu planning

Stock control

Health and safety

Team development

Attention to detail

Flexibility

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at a luxury safari game reserve in the Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga. You will drive culinary standards, mentor a dedicated team and ensure flawless service in a remote lodge setting.

The role requires a passion for high-end dining, strong leadership, menu development, food hygiene and cost control, with the ability to adapt to guest dietary needs and busy service periods.