+2 more
Clear All Filters
Verified Ad
Job Summary
Salary: Negotiable DOE | Live-In
Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an exceptional Head Chef for a renowned luxury game lodge in the Sabi Sands. This role requires a creative, experienced, and highly organised culinary leader who can deliver world-class dining experiences while managing all kitchen operations with precision, innovation, and professionalism.
The Head Chef will oversee all culinary operations, leading the kitchen team to produce outstanding meals that reflect the standards of a luxury safari lodge. This includes menu development, guest engagement, team development, operational efficiency, hygiene compliance, stock control, and financial management.
Key Performance Areas & Responsibilities
• Lead, mentor, and train the kitchen team to deliver consistently high-quality meals
• Design and implement seasonal, innovative menus inspired by global trends and local influences
• Ensure portion control, food presentation, and fine-dining standards are maintained
• Oversee efficient food preparation with strict adherence to dietary and allergy requirements
• Conduct regular quality checks on taste, appearance, and service timeliness
• Engage with guests to understand preferences and feedback
• Ensure meals are beautifully presented and aligned with luxury lodge expectations
• Work with Front of House and Management to personalise culinary offerings
• Proactively manage guest feedback, requests, and complaints
• Identify high-potential staff and mentor them for future growth
• Implement structured training plans and foster a culture of learning
• Conduct quarterly performance appraisals with developmental feedback
• Enforce discipline and maintain high professional standards
• Manage stock, wastage, cost control, and reporting to budgetary targets
• Conduct accurate stocktakes and ensure compliance with procurement policies
• Prepare annual kitchen budgets and monitor monthly performance
• Ensure food costs align with agreed budgets without compromising quality
• Enforce strict hygiene and HACCP protocols
• Maintain cleanliness and ensure functionality of all kitchen equipment
• Train staff on chemical safety, hygiene standards, and safe food handling
• Uphold fire safety, health, and hygiene policies
• Champion sustainable sourcing and waste management practices
• Promote partnerships with local farmers and artisans
• Encourage participation in environmental and community programmes
• Manage team leave, overtime, and attendance
• Assist other departments as needed
• Ensure compliance with labour legislation in scheduling and performance management
• Foster a positive, respectful, and high-performance team culture
• Lead by example in professionalism, time management, and guest interaction
• Encourage inter-departmental collaboration and support sister properties
Knowledge & Competencies:
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP, cost control, and menu engineering
• Excellent financial understanding including budgeting and P&L analysis
• Ability to create and maintain SOPs and training materials
• Strong communication skills and meticulous attention to detail
Skills:
• Creativity and adaptability under pressure
• Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and POS stock control systems
Qualifications & Experience:
• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Head Chef, ideally in a luxury lodge or fine-dining environment
• Strong experience in menu design, budgeting, and team development
• Excellent time management and ability to work under pressure
Maximising Impact as a Member of the Lodge Team:
• Honest, clear communication and a collaborative spirit
• High emotional control, professionalism, and adaptability
• Strong initiative, creativity, and commitment to excellence
• Patience, tolerance, and ability to accept constructive feedback
• Ability to work accurately in high-pressure environments
If anyone is interested in applying for this role, they are encouraged to submit their CV for consideration.
Kendrick Recruitment
Recruiter
Error!
Success!
You have successfully created your alert.
You will receive an email when a new job matching your criteria is posted.
Please check your email. It looks like you haven't verified your account yet. Here's what you're missing out on:
- Response from employers
- Being able to log in and update your profile
- Apply for more jobs
Didn't receive the link? Resend Verification Link