About the Role
Our client, a cutting-edge hospitality startup focused on innovative dining experiences, is seeking a visionary Head of Culinary Operations. This is a critical leadership role, responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and scaling culinary programs across multiple platforms, all managed from a remote work environment. You will lead menu engineering, kitchen operations strategy, and food quality standards, ensuring excellence and consistency. This position demands a seasoned culinary professional with strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of modern gastronomy, food safety, and cost management, all within a remote-first operational framework.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of culinary strategies and concepts.
- Oversee menu design, recipe development, and food costing for all offerings.
- Establish and maintain high standards for food quality, presentation, and safety.
- Develop and implement operational procedures for kitchen teams.
- Manage supply chain and procurement for culinary ingredients and supplies.
- Train and mentor kitchen staff (virtually where applicable) and culinary leaders.
- Monitor food costs and implement strategies for profitability.
- Stay abreast of culinary trends, innovations, and best practices globally.
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations.
- Collaborate with marketing and product development teams on new initiatives.
Requirements
- Extensive experience (10+ years) in high-volume culinary operations, with a significant portion in leadership roles (Executive Chef, Head Chef, Culinary Director).
- Demonstrated success in menu development, costing, and operational efficiency.
- Strong knowledge of food safety standards (HACCP, local regulations).
- Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to lead remotely.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
- Experience with cloud-based kitchen management systems and remote collaboration tools.
- Ability to travel occasionally for site visits or supplier meetings as needed.
- Creative flair and a passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
- Must possess a strong internet connection and a suitable remote work environment.
Benefits
- Highly competitive annual salary of ZAR.
- Generous performance-based bonus structure.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
- Stock options or equity in a growing startup.
- Professional development budget for courses and conferences.
- Opportunity to shape the culinary future of an innovative hospitality company.
- Flexible remote work schedule.