SOUS CHEF

Bushwise; Ladysmith; On-site; ZAR 566,526 - 890,255; Full time

Job summary

Bushwise in Ladysmith, South Africa is hiring a talented Sous Chef to join their prestigious 5-star lodge kitchen. This role is an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented professional who can contribute to a world-class dining experience in a luxury bush environment.

The ideal candidate will support the Head Chef in culinary operations, menu planning, and food presentations, ensuring 5-star standards. A background in leading kitchen teams and a passion for innovative dining are essential for this remote lodge setting.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in a 5-star lodge or hotel environment.
• Ability to manage kitchen operations and lead teams under pressure.
• Passion for fine dining and local ingredients.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in daily kitchen operations.
• Assist in menu planning and food presentation.
• Oversee food preparation and monitor hygiene standards.
• Manage kitchen operations during the Head Chef’s absence.
• Monitor stock levels and cost control.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Communication

Creative presentation

Culinary standards

Education

Formal culinary qualification or equivalent

Job description

Ladysmith, South Africa | Posted on 06/18/2026

A prestigious 5-star lodge is seeking a talented and experienced Sous Chef to join its culinary team. This is an exciting opportunity for a creative and detail‑oriented professional to contribute to a world‑class dining experience in a luxury bush setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in the daily running of the kitchen, ensuring the highest culinary standards and consistency.
• Assist in menu planning, food presentation, and ensuring meals meet 5-star quality expectations.
• Oversee food preparation and ensure hygiene, safety, and quality standards are maintained at all times.
• Manage kitchen operations during the Head Chef’s absence, including team supervision and service delivery.
• Monitor stock levels, ordering, and cost control to minimise waste and ensure efficient kitchen operations.
• Contribute to staff training and development to uphold exceptional service standards.

Collaborate closely with lodge management to align culinary offerings with guest expectations and lodge experiences.

Requirements

• Formal culinary qualification or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in a 5-star lodge or hotel environment (essential).
• Proven ability to manage kitchen operations, lead teams, and maintain composure under pressure.
• Strong organisational, leadership, and communication skills.
• A passion for fine dining, local ingredients, and innovative presentation.
• Willingness to live and work in a remote lodge setting.

Personal Attributes

• Creative, hands‑on, and quality‑driven.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to excellence.
• Professional, reliable, and adaptable to dynamic environments.
• A team player who thrives in collaborative, guest‑focused settings.