Sous Chef — Luxury Kitchen Leader & Menu Innovator

The President Hotel; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

The President Hotel in Cape Town seeks an experienced Head Chef to lead and elevate our luxury kitchen. You will drive menu development, maintain brand standards and ensure impeccable plating and portion control.

Join a team dedicated to creativity, consistency and exceptional dining experiences in a high-end hotel setting. A culinary degree and extensive leadership experience are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in high-end or luxury kitchens.
• At least 2 years' supervisory or management experience.
• Experience in luxury or fine-dining establishments preferred.
• Strong knowledge of contemporary cooking techniques, sourcing and costing.
• Proven ability to lead, coach and inspire a diverse kitchen team.
• Attention to flavour, presentation, portioning and consistency.
• Sound understanding of food safety, HACCP and allergen management.
• Experience with inventory management, stock rotation and food costing.
• Strong organisational, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to stay calm and make sound decisions during high-pressure service.
• Creativity while maintaining brand standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef with menu planning, recipe development and presentation standards.
• Supervise daily kitchen operations and maintain consistent flavour, portions and plating.
• Mentor and train kitchen staff to strengthen skills and standards.
• Support staff scheduling, task allocation and efficient workflow.
• Implement and monitor standard procedures for recipes and presentation.
• Conduct regular tastings and quality checks.
• Maintain HACCP, hygiene, sanitation and allergen-management standards.
• Inspect kitchen and storage areas and ensure proper handling of ingredients.
• Oversee inventory, stock rotation and ingredient quality while minimising waste.
• Maintain accurate stock and food-costing records.
• Take ownership of kitchen performance and resolve issues proactively.
• Lead by example with professionalism and accountability.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Kitchen management

Menu development

Food costing

HACCP knowledge

Staff coaching

High-end dining

Brand standards

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

The President Hotel in Cape Town seeks an experienced Head Chef to lead and elevate our luxury kitchen. You will drive menu development, maintain brand standards and ensure impeccable plating and portion control.

Join a team dedicated to creativity, consistency and exceptional dining experiences in a high-end hotel setting. A culinary degree and extensive leadership experience are essential for this role.