Head Chef

SUMMARY:
A beautiful big 5 safari lodge is seeking an experienced and passionate HEAD CHEF to lead its kitchen operation.

POSITION INFO:
Set within a private game reserve, the lodge offers an intimate, high-end bush experience. The kitchen caters for a small number of guests per sitting, with a focus on exceptional food that reflects the surroundings and the seasons. The successful candidate will lead a small kitchen team and take full ownership of culinary standards, kitchen management, and the overall guest dining experience.
 
Core Criteria:

• Minimum 5 years' experience as a Sous Chef or Head Chef within a luxury lodge or hospitality environment
• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills
• Proven track record in menu development and food costing
• Ability to manage kitchen budgets and maintain food cost percentages
• High standards of hygiene, kitchen administration, and stock control
• Passion for quality, creativity, and attention to detail
• Comfortable working under pressure in a remote bush environment
• Strong staff management and training ability
• Game lodge experience will be advantageous

• Oversee the preparation, quality, and presentation of all meals, including guest dining and staff meals
• Ensure consistency in recipes, ingredients, and plating standards
• Develop and implement seasonal, creative menus in line with lodge standards and guest preferences
• Stay current with food trends and culinary techniques relevant to the luxury lodge market
• Conduct menu costing and manage kitchen budgets effectively
• Maintain food cost percentages within agreed targets
• Oversee stock control, requisitions, issue sheets, and stock rotation
• Conduct weekly and month-end stock takes alongside senior management
• Uphold all hygiene, health, and food safety standards
• Supervise, mentor, and develop kitchen staff while maintaining performance standards
• Coordinate kitchen maintenance requirements and report equipment issues promptly
• Assist in training kitchen and front-of-house teams to maintain overall lodge standards

• Live-in position with accommodation and meals provided
• Provident fund contribution offered by the company
• Paid Sundays and public holidays
• 7 days off per month plus annual leave entitlement
• Salary: R20-30kpm DOE