Npd Executive Chef - Qsr Menu Innovation

Srg Recruitment (Pty) Ltd; Durban; On-site; ZAR 391,000 - 670,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus structure

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Marriott International in Durban is seeking a highly creative and experienced Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations of their premier restaurant. You will be responsible for menu development, kitchen management, staff training, and ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene in a fast-paced setting.

This role requires strong leadership, culinary artistry, and a commitment to excellence, with responsibilities spanning new menu concepts, cost control, supplier

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef.
• Proven ability in menu creation, costing, and culinary innovation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design varied, high-volume menus tailored to diverse needs.
• Oversee end-to-end meal service, portioning and peak hours.
• Manage bulk ordering, supplier negotiations, stock rotation.
• Recruit, train and mentor kitchen staff.
• Ensure hygiene, HACCP, health and safety compliance.
• Track costs and optimize labour budgets.

Skills

Executive Chef experience

Menu costing

Culinary innovation

Leadership

Food safety knowledge

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

Leading quick-service restaurant groups and food development companies are often the top employers. Companies like McDonald's South Africa, KFC South Africa, and local QSR chains frequently seek skilled NPD professionals.

Key responsibilities include conceptualizing and developing new menu items, conducting market research on food trends, and managing the entire product development lifecycle. Chefs also oversee taste testing, cost analysis, and collaborate with operations teams for successful launches.

A culinary degree or equivalent professional experience is generally required. Strong knowledge of food science, product development processes, and experience within the QSR sector is highly valued.

Menu costing and supplier relationships are critically important. Understanding food costs ensures profitability, while strong supplier connections can lead to better ingredient sourcing and innovation opportunities.

Showing 3 Npd Executive Chef Qsr Menu Innovation jobs in Durban

Duties

• Design varied, high-volume, and nutritious weekly menus tailored to diverse employee demographics and dietary requirements
• Oversee the end-to-end execution of meal services, ensuring food is fresh, properly portioned, and served efficiently during peak canteen hours.
• Manage bulk ordering, negotiate with food suppliers, and oversee stock rotation to minimize waste and meet budgetary targets.
• Recruit, train, schedule, and mentor a team of sous chefs, cooks, and scullery workers to ensure a high-performing and motivated kitchen brigade.
• Ensure impeccable hygiene and sanitation standards (e.g., HACCP), perform daily temperature checks, and maintain a spotless record regarding local health and safety legislation.
• Track raw food costs (GP%), prepare variance reports, and optimize labour budgets while maintaining quality and client satisfaction.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Food Preparation or Catering
• Proven experience in high-volume catering, contract foodservice, or industrial canteens.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, solid mathematical and financial acumen, and an up-to-date certification in food safety.

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly creative and experienced Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations of their acclaimed restaurant in Durban. This is a premier opportunity for a chef with a passion for innovative cuisine and a commitment to excellence. You will be responsible for menu development, kitchen management, staff training, and ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene. This role demands strong leadership, culinary artistry, and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment, contributing to the culinary reputation of Durban.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and appealing menus that align with the restaurant's brand and target market.
• Manage all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Oversee kitchen staff, providing training, motivation, and performance feedback.
• Control food costs through effective inventory management, purchasing, and waste reduction.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate with the management team to enhance the overall dining experience.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in reputable establishments.
• Proven ability in menu creation, costing, and culinary innovation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday allowance.
• Professional development and further culinary training opportunities.
• An exciting opportunity to shape the culinary landscape of Durban.

Job Type: Full Time

Durban R35000 - R60000 per month

Marriott

At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.