Job Summary
?️ Executive Chef | Luxury Lodge | Hluhluwe, KZN ? Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Executive Chef to lead the kitchen operations at a prestigious luxury lodge in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal. This live-in role is perfect for a creative culinary professional with a passion for delivering world-class food experiences in a high-end bush hospitality setting. ? Salary: Negotiable DOE ? Accommodation: Live-in ? Key Responsibilities: • Maintain the highest standards of kitchen hygiene and cleanliness • Train, mentor and guide all chefs while implementing kitchen standards • Ensure correct cleaning chemicals and sufficient supplies are always in stock • Plan and execute a 7-day menu according to the Food Styling Guide • Monitor presentation, quality and freshness of all meals and platters • Keep up to date with culinary trends and guest preferences • Lead creative bush banqueting experiences according to the Food Styling Guide • Proactively maintain kitchen equipment and facilities • Maintain effective communication with chefs, camp managers, HODs, lodge management and suppliers • Monitor stock control, stock rotation and storeroom organisation • Manage food orders, fridges, deep freezers and leftover processes • Ensure all vehicles and containers transporting food are spotless • Maintain checklists for all items going to camps • Supervise and check buffets, dinners, breakfasts and meals at each camp at least three times per week • Restrict kitchen traffic to essential personnel only • Keep all fridges, refrigerators and storerooms secure • Cost all menus and ensure adherence to COS, providing explanations and corrective actions for any overs • Implement and enforce all health and safety protocols • Ensure snacks for game drives, bush banquets, drink stops and picnics meet quality standards • Organise canteens efficiently • Engage positively with guests and fellow chefs, encouraging feedback and sharing culinary ideas • Be a role model for discipline, professionalism and fair treatment • Manage and accommodate special dietary requirements for guests ? Skills Required: • Strong communication skills with guests and staff • Exceptional culinary standards • Excellent organisational and planning abilities • Strong initiative and lateral thinking skills • Commitment to world-class hospitality and service standards • Honest, proactive, integrity-driven and career-oriented ? Knowledge Required: • Hospitality and food service operations • Environmental and community awareness • Country and local knowledge • Company knowledge relevant to lodge operations • Valid, unendorsed South African driver's licence ?? Previous Experience: • Minimum of 3 years' relevant experience within high-end hospitality • Experience managing kitchen teams and guest-facing culinary operations • Passion for creating exceptional food experiences ⚠️ If you do not hear from us within 7 working days, please consider your application unsuccessful.