Job Summary
Head Chef - 5-Star Boutique Hotel & Spa - Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape ? Urgent Vacancy Kendrick Recruitment is searching for a talented, thoughtful and hands-on Head Chef for a celebrated 5-star boutique hotel and spa in the heart of Plettenberg Bay, forming part of a respected South African boutique hospitality group with a portfolio of distinctive properties. The culinary philosophy here is beautifully straightforward: Simple. Honest. Delicious. This is a role for a chef who can balance creativity with structure, excellence with efficiency and high standards with a grounded, people-focused approach. You will lead the full kitchen operation, develop seasonal locally inspired menus and build a kitchen culture that reflects the warmth and character of the property. Please note: Plettenberg Bay or Garden Route based candidates are strongly preferred. This is a live-out position. Start date is immediate. Minimum Requirements: Formal culinary qualification from a recognised institution - essential Minimum 3 years' experience in a Head Chef or senior Sous Chef role within luxury or boutique hospitality - essential Proven ability to create and execute high-quality seasonal, locally inspired menus Strong kitchen leadership and team management experience Solid financial acumen including food cost control, stock management and supplier relationships Experience with menu costing and contributing to pricing strategy Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene and health compliance Hands-on; visible and operationally present in the kitchen Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Computer literate - TallOrder experience advantageous Passionate about sustainable sourcing and building relationships with local suppliers Warm; grounded, confident and collaborative - without ego Stable work history with contactable references and a strong food portfolio Key Responsibilities: ?️ Culinary Leadership Develop and execute seasonal, locally inspired menus aligned to the property's food philosophy Maintain exceptional standards of food quality, presentation and consistency across all meal periods Continuously evolve the culinary offering through innovation and food trend awareness Work collaboratively with the Group Food Ambassador and management team on brand alignment ? Team Leadership Lead; mentor and develop the full kitchen team Build a strong, respectful and high-performing kitchen culture Support recruitment, training and performance management Manage staffing levels and scheduling in line with operational requirements ? Kitchen Operations Lead the full day-to-day kitchen operation ensuring smooth, efficient service delivery Oversee preparation, service, hygiene and quality control across all service periods Implement and maintain effective kitchen systems and workflows Maintain strict adherence to food safety and health regulations ? Financial & Commercial Management Manage food costs, margins and wastage in line with budget and profitability targets Oversee stock control, procurement and supplier relationships Ensure accurate menu costing and contribute to pricing strategies Identify opportunities to enhance revenue through culinary experiences and special events ? Guest Experience & Sustainability Ensure every dining experience reflects the character and standards of the property Collaborate with FOH teams for seamless service delivery Contribute to special events, activations and bespoke guest experiences Build relationships with local suppliers and drive sustainable sourcing practices Package: Gross Salary: R30,000 to R40,000 per month (DOE) Live-out position - Plettenberg Bay Start date: Immediate/ASAP Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, a food portfolio, contactable references and a recent head and shoulders photo ASAP! ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful