Ehlanzeni: Executive Chef – Luxury Private Lodge posted by C & G Hospitality Recruitment T/A Hotelrecruiters

April 29, 2026 Jobs in Ehlanzeni

C & G Hospitality Recruitment T/A Hotelrecruiters

Mpumalanga

Catering / hospitality

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to join our luxury private lodge estate in the Sabi Sands Kruger region. As the strategic lead for all culinary operations, you will be responsible for designing and implementing seasonal menus, managing kitchen logistics, and ensuring exceptional quality and consistency across all food services.

Key Responsibilities

Menu Engineering & R&D: Design, cost, and implement seasonal, avant-garde menus.
Conduct continuous research into global culinary trends to ensure the offering remains competitive and world-class.
End-to-End Kitchen Management: Direct all phases of food production, from raw material reception to final plating.
Ensure the kitchen functions as a high-precision unit during peak service periods.
Financial & Budgetary Control: Full accountability for the culinary P&L.
Conduct weekly stocktakes, variance analysis, and implement corrective actions for any margin slippage.
Quality Assurance & Standardisation: Develop and enforce strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for every dish.
Conduct daily line checks to guarantee consistency in taste, temperature, and visual presentation.
Strategic Procurement: Negotiate with high-end niche suppliers for specialty ingredients.
Manage cold chain logistics to ensure zero compromise on freshness for a remote or high-demand location.
Human Capital Development: Implement a rigorous training regime for the brigade.
Handle performance reviews, disciplinary procedures, and skill-gap training to maintain a 5-star service culture.
Hygiene & Compliance: Act as the primary custodian of the Food Safety Management System (FSMS).
Ensure the kitchen is “audit-ready” at all times, exceeding HACCP and local health department requirements.

Requirements

Professional Qualification: A formal 3-year Culinary Degree or Advanced Diploma (e.g., City & Guilds or equivalent).
Direct Industry Experience: 10 years in professional kitchens, with a mandatory 5-year tenure in a senior leadership role (Executive Chef or Executive Sous) within the ultra-luxury or private estate sector.
Financial Expertise: Proven ability to manage multi-million-rand food budgets and complex procurement software (e.g., Micros, Materials Control).
Technical Proficiency: Mastery of diverse culinary disciplines including Sous-vide, pastry, butchery, and molecular gastronomy.

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Salary & Benefits

Not specified in the original job description.

How to Apply

Click the green “Go Apply” button below to apply directly online with the employer.

About Catering / hospitality Jobs in Mpumalanga

Catering and hospitality positions are a vital part of the South African job market, particularly in provinces like Mpumalanga where tourism is a significant contributor to the local economy. Typically, these roles involve providing excellent customer service, managing food and beverage operations, and maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety. Generally, the demand for skilled catering and hospitality professionals is consistent across various sectors.

The salary range for catering and hospitality positions in Mpumalanga can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, company size, and industry sector. Commonly, entry-level roles may fall within a salary bracket of R20 000 to R35 000 per annum, while more senior positions can command salaries ranging from R50 000 to R100 000 or more. However, it’s essential to note that these are broad estimates and actual salaries may vary significantly depending on individual circumstances.

Common skills required for catering and hospitality roles include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, ability to multitask, and a strong work ethic. Generally, employers also look for candidates with experience in food preparation, inventory management, and customer service. In some cases, certifications such as food safety or wine appreciation may be beneficial. Industry sectors that commonly employ catering and hospitality professionals include the tourism industry, events management, and corporate hospitality.

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In terms of career development, opportunities abound for those willing to invest time and effort into their professional growth. Typically, entry-level positions can serve as a springboard to more senior roles within the same organisation, or to new opportunities in related fields such as event management or hotel administration. With experience and additional training, professionals in this field may also pursue management positions or start their own businesses.

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

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