Head Chef | Luxury Safari Lodge | Lephalale
Salary: R15,000 R18,000 (Negotiable depending on experience) | Live-In Position

Kendrick Recruitment is now seeking a Head Chef for a well-established luxury safari lodge located in Lephalale. This position is ideal for a passionate and creative culinary professional with proven leadership skills, eager to deliver exceptional dining experiences in a world-class bush setting.

Minimum Requirements:

• 34 years previous experience as a Head Chef in a 4/5-star environment

• Proven track record supported by a food portfolio

• Strong knowledge and experience in both pastry and hot kitchen sections

• Formal food hygiene or professional cooking qualifications

• In-depth understanding of dietary and religious food requirements

• Previous experience in stock control, budgeting, and ordering processes

• Passion for culinary excellence and continuous personal development

• Flexible, hard-working team player with strong leadership skills

• Guest-focused with excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage all kitchen operations and staff

• Ensure the preparation and presentation of food meets the highest standards

• Train and develop kitchen team members to maintain consistent quality and efficiency

• Effectively manage stock control and month-end reporting procedures

• Maintain high levels of hygiene and food safety across all areas

• Deliver exceptional guest satisfaction through professional, creative culinary offerings

• Ensure efficient time management and workflow in the kitchen environment

This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled Head Chef who thrives in a remote luxury setting and is passionate about offering memorable dining experiences that complement the safari lifestyle.

Head Chef | Luxury Property Group | Thabazimbi

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking a highly skilled and passionate Head Chef for a prestigious luxury property group based in Thabazimbi. This is a live-in role, with a negotiable salary depending on experience. The successful candidate will be guest-facing, have a vibrant personality, and be confident leading a team in a dynamic and hands-on environment.

Position: Head Chef
Location: Thabazimbi
Property Type: Luxury Property Group
Salary: Negotiable DOE (Live-in)

Key Focus Areas:

Kitchen Operations & Financial Control

• Oversee effective kitchen administration to minimise shortages and wastage

• Full accountability for stock control, variances, and cost management

• Implement robust stock systems and cost-saving measures

• Manage kitchen assets and ensure maintenance standards are upheld

• Analyse monthly accounts and take corrective action where necessary

• Maintain profitability of the kitchen department

Hygiene, Standards & Food Quality

• Ensure cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen areas

• Maintain and monitor fridges and stores at correct levels

• Monitor food quality, taste, and presentation across all outlets

• Control portion sizes and ensure consistent plating

• Maintain high standards of preparation and food safety

Guest Interaction & Service Delivery

• Engage with guests, ensuring culinary experiences align with expectations

• Be present on the kitchen floor, leading service by example

• Collaborate effectively with Front of House and Management

Team Training & Development

• Identify team members with potential for growth

• Implement structured training programmes using internal and external resources

• Provide mentorship, guidance, and regular performance appraisals

• Drive performance management and succession planning initiatives

Menu Design & Innovation

• Design and implement menus suited to various outlets and dietary needs

• Remain current with international culinary trends and guest preferences

• Use creativity to enhance culinary offerings and guest satisfaction

Requirements:

• Relevant culinary qualifications and certifications

• Strong background in 5-star hospitality and remote property environments

• Knowledge of dietary, cultural, and religious food requirements

• Proven track record in kitchen management, budgeting, and reporting

• Excellent communication, time management, and problem-solving skills

• Ability to work well under pressure and maintain high standards

• Strong leadership skills with a focus on team development and training

• Energetic, guest-focused, hands-on approach to operations

This role offers an exciting opportunity for a talented chef looking to deliver world-class cuisine in a luxury bush setting, while playing a key role in team development and guest satisfaction. Apply now to be part of a renowned property group committed to culinary excellence.