Visionary Head Chef: Fine Dining & Events - Stellenbosch

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Head Chef to lead the culinary operations in Stellenbosch's renowned wine region. You will oversee both the restaurant kitchen and the catering division, shaping the menu, maintaining high standards, and driving excellence in service.

You will recruit and train a diverse kitchen team, manage inventory and costs, source local ingredients, and ensure strict health and safety compliance while staying abreast of global culinary trends.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of progressive Head Chef/Senior Sous Chef experience in fine dining or high-end catering.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proven leadership and ability to manage diverse kitchen teams.
• Strong financial skills: menu costing, budgeting, inventory control.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety standards and best practices.
• Ability to thrive under pressure during peak service in Stellenbosch.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage kitchen operations for the fine dining restaurant and the catering division, ensuring consistent quality and service.
• Develop innovative and seasonal menus that reflect the restaurant's ethos and cater to events.
• Source high-quality ingredients, establishing strong relationships with local suppliers.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and cost control to optimise profitability without compromising quality.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and manage the kitchen brigade, fostering a culture of excellence.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety and hygiene regulations within the kitchen.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, plating and presentation to the highest standards.
• Collaborate with management and events team to ensure seamless dining and event experiences.
• Maintain creative direction and culinary innovation, staying abreast of global trends.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to kitchen staff.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Culinary excellence

Staff training

Financial management

Food safety

Communication

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Head Chef to lead the culinary operations in Stellenbosch's renowned wine region. You will oversee both the restaurant kitchen and the catering division, shaping the menu, maintaining high standards, and driving excellence in service.

You will recruit and train a diverse kitchen team, manage inventory and costs, source local ingredients, and ensure strict health and safety compliance while staying abreast of global culinary trends.