Job Summary
Job Description: We are currently seeking a passionate, experienced, and visionary Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations at a small boutique hotel. The Executive Chef will be responsible for the overall management, leadership, and performance of the kitchen and restaurant culinary offering, ensuring that the highest standards of food quality, creativity, and guest satisfaction are consistently delivered. This role requires a hands-on leader who is deeply passionate about food and hospitality and who is motivated to build and shape the identity of the kitchen and restaurant. The successful candidate will be encouraged to bring their own culinary style, creativity, and vision while maintaining the refined standards expected in a luxury boutique hotel environment. We are looking for a chef who will truly make the kitchen and restaurant their own — someone who takes pride and ownership in the culinary experience, builds a strong and passionate kitchen culture, and continuously strives to elevate the dining experience for our guests. The role also requires strong operational and financial awareness, ensuring that purchasing, stock control, and cost management are carefully monitored while maintaining exceptional quality and consistency. The ideal candidate will be innovative, organised, and passionate about delivering memorable dining experiences while helping to build and strengthen the culinary reputation of the hotel. Responsibilities: Oversee all kitchen operations and maintain the highest culinary standards • Lead, train, and inspire the kitchen brigade • Develop innovative menus and seasonal specials • Take ownership of the kitchen and restaurant’s culinary identity • Maintain strict food cost, stock control, and purchasing procedures • Manage supplier relationships, deliveries, and invoice verification • Ensure exceptional food quality, presentation, and consistency • Ensure full compliance with health, hygiene, and food safety regulations • Work closely with hotel management to enhance the overall guest dining experience Qualifications: • Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef, preferably within a luxury hotel or fine dining environment • Strong leadership and kitchen management skills • Excellent knowledge of food costing, stock control, receiving procedures, and kitchen administration • Ability to develop creative menus and drive culinary innovation • Strong organizational and communication skills • Ability to perform well under pressure in a fast-paced hospitality environment • A genuine passion for food, leadership, and delivering exceptional guest experiences ONLY APPLY IF YOU HAVE THE REQUIRED EXPERIENCE ! South African Nationals only. Correspondence will be limited to suitable candidates only, therefore if you do not receive a response within 7 working days, accept that your application was unsuccessful. Please forward a comprehensive and UPDATED cv (starting with current position) with a head & shoulders photo. No skype or telephonic interviews will be given and candidates must be able to attend an interview in person. Open to South African citizens only . Salary non negotiable as advertised.