South Africa: Head Chef – Elite 5 Star Lodge – Sabi Sands | Sl posted by Kendrick Recruitment

January 12, 2026 Jobs in South Africa

Kendrick Recruitment

ZA

Catering / hospitality

Job Description

About the Role

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an exceptional Head Chef for a premier 5 star luxury safari lodge located within the Sabi Sands. This opportunity requires a highly skilled culinary leader who is passionate about refined dining, innovation, sustainability, and developing talent within a world-class hospitality environment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, inspire, and upskill the kitchen team to deliver exceptional meals of consistent quality
Craft seasonal, innovative, and globally influenced menus tailored to guest expectations
Enforce strict portion control, plating quality, and fine dining presentation standards
Oversee food preparation efficiency, dietary management, and service punctuality
Conduct continual quality checks on taste, aesthetics, and overall offering

Engage directly with guests to understand preferences and create personalised dining moments
Ensure plated and buffet presentations reflect luxury lodge aesthetics
Partner with management and FOH teams to curate memorable culinary experiences
Monitor feedback loops, resolve complaints graciously, and adapt offerings proactively

Mentor and grow future culinary leaders
Implement structured training programs supported by internal and external trainers
Conduct quarterly performance reviews with actionable development plans
Enforce HR discipline, professionalism, and brand-aligned kitchen culture

Requirements

Recognised formal chef qualification (Diploma or higher)
Minimum 5 years as a Head Chef in a 5* luxury lodge environment
Proven menu engineering, budgeting, and kitchen leadership capability
Strong food knowledge: local cuisine, international styles, dietary and allergy management

Qualifications

No additional qualifications mentioned.

Salary & Benefits

A highly competitive salary, negotiable for the right candidate. Live-in accommodation with excellent benefits.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV, contactable references, food portfolio and a recent head and shoulders photograph ASAP. If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.

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About Catering / hospitality Jobs in ZA

The catering and hospitality industry in South Africa is a thriving sector that provides opportunities for individuals to pursue fulfilling careers. Typically, the job market trends in this field are characterized by strong demand for skilled professionals, particularly in urban areas where tourism and event hosting are increasingly popular.

When it comes to salaries, a general salary range for catering and hospitality positions in South Africa can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, company size, industry sector, and level of responsibility. Broadly speaking, common entry-level positions in this field typically earn salaries ranging from R30 000 to R50 000 per annum, while senior roles can command salaries upwards of R80 000 to R120 000 or more, depending on the specific requirements of the role.

Common skills required for success in the catering and hospitality industry include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, ability to work well under pressure, physical stamina, and basic knowledge of food safety and handling. Additionally, experience with customer service, event planning, and inventory management is often beneficial. While some employers may place a greater emphasis on specific technical skills or certifications, these general skills provide a solid foundation for career progression in this field.

The catering and hospitality industry encompasses a wide range of sectors, including fine dining restaurants, casual eateries, hotels, conference centers, and event management companies. Financial services sector, technology industry, and manufacturing sector are among the common industries that employ professionals in this field. While specific job roles may vary, understanding the broader industry landscape can help individuals make informed career choices.

Career development opportunities in catering and hospitality abound, with many employers investing in training and development programs to support staff growth and advancement. Typically, career progression involves taking on additional responsibilities, such as shift management or team leadership roles, or pursuing specialized certifications or further education. With dedication and hard work, individuals can build a fulfilling career in this dynamic and rewarding industry.

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This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.

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