Visionary Executive Chef: Fine Dining & Local Sourcing

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Performance bonus

Professional development opportunities

Wine and accommodation discounts

Discounts on vineyard dining

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a renowned vineyard and acclaimed restaurant in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to hire an Executive Chef. You will lead culinary operations, concept menus, and kitchen leadership to deliver extraordinary dining experiences.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 6 years in fine dining, a culinary degree, and a passion for seasonal, local ingredients. You will manage costs, training, and standards across the brigade to uphold the highest quality and presentation.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience as Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in fine dining or upscale settings.
• Strong portfolio of culinary work and demonstrated creativity.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
• Deep knowledge of food costing, inventory control, and budget management.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Passion for seasonal, local ingredients and sustainable sourcing.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations, including menu development, food prep, and plating.
• Create innovative, seasonally driven menus highlighting local produce and vineyard pairings.
• Mentor and train kitchen staff; drive performance management.
• Maintain top quality, taste, and presentation across dishes.
• Control budgets, food costs, and optimize inventory management.
• Enforce strict health, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Collaborate with restaurant management and wine team to elevate dining experience.
• Source high-quality ingredients from local, sustainable suppliers.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures for the kitchen.
• Stay ahead of culinary trends and continuously elevate the dining offering.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Budget management

Food costing

Food safety

Seasonal sourcing

Staff mentorship

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

Placements24 is partnering with a renowned vineyard and acclaimed restaurant in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to hire an Executive Chef. You will lead culinary operations, concept menus, and kitchen leadership to deliver extraordinary dining experiences.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 6 years in fine dining, a culinary degree, and a passion for seasonal, local ingredients. You will manage costs, training, and standards across the brigade to uphold the highest quality and presentation.