Household Manager & Chef

RecruitMyMom; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A private household in Kyalami, Sandton, is seeking a full-time Household Manager & Chef to ensure efficient operations. Responsibilities include developing meal plans, sourcing quality ingredients, overseeing household staff, and maintaining high hygiene standards. Ideal candidates have a culinary qualification and experience in hospitality. The role requires flexibility with working hours, with weekends off arranged in advance. Accommodation is available on-site if desired.

Benefits

On-site accommodation available

Two full days off per week

Qualifications

• Culinary qualification or certification required.
• Experience as a chef in the hospitality sector is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop meal plans based on dietary preferences.
• Source and procure high-quality ingredients.
• Prepare and serve daily meals and cater for events.
• Oversee household staff and manage their schedules.
• Ensure hygiene and maintenance of the premises.

Skills

Culinary expertise

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Service orientation

Problem-solving

Education

Culinary qualification / certification

Job description

Kyalami, Sandton, South Africa | Posted on 10/11/2025

The Household Manager & Chef is responsible for ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of a private residence, covering culinary services, household administration, and internal / external property management.

This role combines the skills of a professional chef with the discretion, service orientation, and organisational capabilities of a butler, alongside responsibilities for household systems, maintenance schedules, and estate presentation. The position requires high service standards, confidentiality, professionalism, and flexibility to meet the evolving needs of the household.

The role will adhere to the stipulated number of working hours per week in accordance with South African labour regulations. Given the nature of the position within a private household, there is no fixed start or end time. You may be expected to prepare and serve all daily meals and adjust to the household’s schedule, including hosting duties as required.

The incumbent will receive two full days off per week, as a weekly pre-arrangement to the residents’ requirements in that particular week. Any additional hours worked beyond the standard weekly requirement may be accumulated and taken as leave days when the residents are away, which occurs fairly regularly.

This is a full-time position and the incumbent can stay on the premises should they prefer.

Key Responsibilities

• Culinary and Hospitality
  • Develop customised meal plans based on dietary needs, preferences, and restrictions.
  • Source and procure high-quality ingredients from trusted suppliers.
  • Prepare and serve daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks) and cater for private events.
  • Maintain high standards of kitchen hygiene, safety, and inventory management.
  • Create a welcoming environment for guests, ensuring exceptional dining and entertaining experiences.
• Internal Household Management
  • Oversee household staff (cleaners, drivers, gardeners, security where applicable), ensuring schedules and duties are efficiently carried out.
  • Manage dry cleaning and laundry cycles, ensuring clothes, linens, and uniforms are properly maintained.
  • Coordinate household routines and personal errands with accuracy and timeliness.
  • Maintain discretion and confidentiality at all times.
  • Supervise the upkeep of gardens, pool, driveway, and all external areas, ensuring they are pristine and guest-ready at all times.
  • Schedule and oversee landscaping, pool maintenance, and pest control services.
  • Ensure proper waste management and environmental cleanliness.
• Maintenance & Safety
  • Maintain service schedules for fire alarms, HVAC, pool pumps, water systems, and other critical household systems.
  • Coordinate with external contractors for preventive maintenance and repairs.
  • Monitor household security systems and liaise with security providers as required.
  • Keep accurate records of service providers, schedules, warranties, and emergency contacts.
  • Manage household budgets, purchasing, and procurement with discretion.
  • Track expenses, reconcile invoices, and maintain financial transparency.
  • Conduct regular stock takes of pantry, cleaning, and household supplies.
  • Use digital tools (Excel, apps, reports) to document and report on household operations.

Requirements

Core Competencies

• Service Orientation & Etiquette – Upholding exemplary standards of personal presentation and guest interaction.
• Organisational Skills – Ability to manage multiple priorities seamlessly.
• Attention to Detail – From table settings to property presentation, ensuring excellence.
• Discretion & Confidentiality – Respect for employer’s privacy and household affairs.
• Culinary Expertise – Wide knowledge of cuisines, presentation, and dietary needs.
• Property Management Knowledge – Understanding service schedules, contractor management, and facility upkeep.
• Adaptability & Problem-Solving – Ability to act decisively when unexpected household issues arise.

Requirements:

• Culinary qualification / certification
• Experience working in the hospitality field as a chef