Sous Chef

Craven Cottage CC; Makhanda; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

Craven Cottage CC is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead daily kitchen operations at our luxury lodge. You will supervise junior chefs, ensure top-quality dishes, manage inventory, and assist with menu costing and development. A strong leadership style and passion for culinary excellence are essential.

You will collaborate with the culinary team to craft menus using local seasonal ingredients and uphold HACCP and food safety standards in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Formal culinary qualification required.
• Grade 12 educational background.
• 5+ years in a luxury lodge/hotel environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations.
• Supervise and mentor junior chefs.
• Ensure consistency in food quality and presentation.
• Manage inventory and ordering.
• Support the Head Chef with menu development and costing.
• Assist the Head Chef in overseeing day-to-day culinary operations of the villa/lodge.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary expertise

Mentoring

Menu development

Cost control

HACCP

Food safety

Communication

Team coordination

Adaptability

Guest satisfaction

Wine/food trends

Stock management

Education

Culinary qualification

Grade 12

Job description

Duties

• Lead daily kitchen operations.
• Supervise and mentor junior chefs.
• Ensure consistency in food quality and presentation.
• Manage inventory and ordering.
• Support the Head Chef with menu development and costing.
• Assist the Head Chef in overseeing the day-to-day culinary operations of the villa/lodge, ensuring exceptional food quality and presentation.
• Prepare and cook dishes to the highest standards, demonstrating creativity and a passion for culinary excellence.
• Collaborate closely with the culinary team to develop innovative menus that showcase the finest local and seasonal ingredients.
• Coordinate and supervise kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations.
• Train and mentor junior chefs, promoting skill development and maintaining a cohesive and efficient team.
• Adhere to strict health and safety regulations (HACCP), maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment.
• Work closely with other departments to deliver a seamless dining experience for guests.

Requirements

• Grade 12
• A formal culinary qualification
• At least 5+ years’ experience in a luxury lodge / hotel environment
• Excellent cooking and leadership skills.
• Strong organizational and planning ability.
• Knowledge of food safety and cost control.
• Assertive, dependable and team focused.
• Passionate about culinary excellence.
• Adaptable and composed under pressure.
• Proven leadership experience.
• Ability to work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A commitment to delivering exceptional guest satisfaction.
• Good understanding of food and wine trends.
• In depth knowledge and understanding of stock procedures and control
• Knowledgeable of all dietary and religious requirements
• Ability to adapt with an ever-changing environment.
• Previous lodge experience is mandatory for this position.
• All-rounder (hot and pastry sections)
• Good communicator
• Willing to work flexible hours
• A valid driver's Licence.