Lead Chef - Fine Dining, Seasonal Menus and Team Leadership

IntelliStaff; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Job summary

IntelliStaff is seeking a Head Chef for a luxury hospitality portfolio in Stellenbosch. You will oversee the entire kitchen operation, ensure high-quality food presentation, maintain hygiene standards, and lead a team of culinary professionals to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

The ideal candidate has proven Head Chef experience in fine dining, with strong leadership, menu development, and cost-control capabilities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef in luxury hospitality.
• Strong leadership and ability to manage kitchen staff.
• Expert in food costing, budgeting and inventory control.
• Excellent communication and team-building skills.
• Knowledge of HACCP and local health regulations.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all guests are cared for individually, meeting specific dietary needs and requirements, and preparing meals accordingly.
• Ensure food served meets expected quality and presentation standards, maintaining the reputation of the establishment.
• Report complaints, feedback, and operational requirements to the Group Operations Manager and Hotel Manager.
• Maintain effective communication with other departments to ensure smooth service delivery.
• Ensure menus are seasonal, fresh, and aligned with a natural, organic brand vision.
• Review and update menus seasonally in collaboration with senior management and relevant stakeholders, adhering to deadlines for new menu releases.
• Design menus for picnics, braais, conferences, and special dining experiences to enhance guest satisfaction.
• Oversee night audit menu preparation and ensure staff training is completed effectively.
• Conduct weekly planning and feedback meetings with the Hotel Manager.
• Conduct daily kitchen briefings to communicate specials, stock availability, and menu changes.
• Lead, train, and develop a skilled and motivated kitchen team.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to support staff development.
• Ensure adherence to recipes, portion control, and presentation standards.
• Manage staff scheduling and ensure adequate kitchen coverage during service periods.
• Interview and assist in the selection of kitchen staff in collaboration with Human Resources.
• Manage duty rosters and allocate responsibilities, including leave and absenteeism coverage.
• Handle disciplinary matters and grievances in coordination with Human Resources.
• Monitor and control kitchen costs, including food, labour, and equipment maintenance, to achieve financial targets.
• Control waste and portioning to maximise efficiency.
• Maintain regular stock control procedures and train staff in ordering and inventory management.
• Ensure strict adherence to hygiene, food safety, and HACCP standards in line with local regulations.

Skills

Kitchen management

Food costing

Inventory control

Leadership

Staff training

Menu development

HACCP & food safety

Budgeting & cost control

Communication

Team management

Tools

MS Office

POS systems

Job description

IntelliStaff is seeking a Head Chef for a luxury hospitality portfolio in Stellenbosch. You will oversee the entire kitchen operation, ensure high-quality food presentation, maintain hygiene standards, and lead a team of culinary professionals to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

The ideal candidate has proven Head Chef experience in fine dining, with strong leadership, menu development, and cost-control capabilities.