Head Chef: Menu Innovator & Kitchen Operations Leader

Empact Group; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Empact Group in Pretoria is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead menu development, establish recipes, and oversee all food production in a fast-paced operation.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified chef with strong leadership skills, financial acumen, and a proven track record in managing budgets, GP% and ensuring OHS compliance across the kitchen. You will drive innovation and maintain high standards of quality and service.

Qualifications

• Qualified chef with proven culinary expertise.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality or equivalent.
• Knowledge of the catering environment, from fine dining to restaurant dining.
• Strong understanding of South African legislation and industry standards.
• Experience in budget management and achieving target GP%.

Responsibilities

• Menu Development and Food Production: Develop and plan seasonal and innovative menus; establish standardized recipes and purchase specifications; coordinate, execute, supervise, and evaluate all food production activities; ensure dishes meet quality, presentation, and cost standards.
• Operational Management: Assist in managing strategic and daily kitchen operations; ensure OHS compliance across all food production areas; support the manager in maintaining high customer service standards; drive food innovation and trends.
• Procurement and Cost Control: Place and manage kitchen orders; maintain stock records and waste tracking; manage stock par levels; ensure menu costings support GP% targets.
• Team Management: Lead and supervise the kitchen production team; enforce working hours and break times; uphold company policies; foster teamwork and high performance.

Skills

Culinary expertise

Qualified chef

Budget management

OHS knowledge

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality

Equivalent industry experience

Job description

Empact Group in Pretoria is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead menu development, establish recipes, and oversee all food production in a fast-paced operation.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified chef with strong leadership skills, financial acumen, and a proven track record in managing budgets, GP% and ensuring OHS compliance across the kitchen. You will drive innovation and maintain high standards of quality and service.