Job Summary
Executive Chef – Luxury Lodges | Kruger National Park Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking an experienced Executive Chef for two luxury lodges in the Kruger National Park. This live-in role offers the opportunity to lead the kitchens, ensuring exceptional culinary standards and a memorable dining experience for guests. Requirements Diploma or degree in Professional Cookery, Culinary Arts, or equivalent City & Guilds or equivalent certification preferred Minimum 5–7 years’ professional kitchen experience, including at least 3 years in a senior or executive chef role Valid Food Safety/Hygiene Certificate (HACCP knowledge essential) Strong knowledge of kitchen audits, compliance with local food legislation, and health and safety regulations Experience managing special dietary requirements (vegan, gluten-free, etc.) Leadership and team management skills, with experience training and mentoring multicultural teams Calm under pressure, organised, solution-oriented, and able to lead by example Computer literacy, particularly Excel for stock control and menu costing Valid driver’s licence Key Responsibilities Oversee kitchen operations for both lodges, ensuring consistency and excellence Design and cost menus for lodge dining, including bush breakfasts, boma dinners, and fine dining Control costs, reduce waste, and manage procurement within budget Conduct month-end stock takes and ensure stock rotation Lead; train, and mentor the kitchen team, including junior chefs and interns Schedule; delegate, and manage staff performance, including discipline where necessary Maintain high standards of hygiene, kitchen cleanliness, and compliance with health and safety regulations Monitor kitchen equipment and report faults Regularly visit both lodges to ensure kitchens, buffets, and storage areas meet standards Plan leave rosters and provide staff feedback and support Promote sustainability and local sourcing within kitchen operations Adapt to remote bush conditions, including limited connectivity and proximity to wildlife Package R25 000 DOE Live-in accommodation provided Uniform and meals included Compulsory provident fund of 5% (CTC) 7 consecutive days off per month and 21 consecutive days of annual leave To Apply Send your CV, references, qualifications, and a recent head & shoulders photo Please note: Only candidates meeting the listed requirements will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.