Head Chef – Luxury Game Lodge, Sabi Sands 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. Position Purpose: 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 Kitchen Operations & Food Preparation: • 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 Guest Experience & Service: • 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 Team Leadership & Staff Development: • 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 Kitchen Administration & Financial Management: • 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 Health, Safety & Hygiene: • 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 Sustainability & Community Impact: • Champion sustainable sourcing and waste management practices • Promote partnerships with local farmers and artisans • Encourage participation in environmental and community programmes Human Resources & Scheduling: • Manage team leave, overtime, and attendance • Assist other departments as needed • Ensure compliance with labour legislation in scheduling and performance management Leadership & Culture: • 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: • Extensive culinary knowledge including international cuisine and fine dining • 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: • Proven leadership and mentoring capability • Creativity and adaptability under pressure • Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and POS stock control systems Qualifications & Experience: • Formal culinary qualification (Diploma or higher) • 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: • Strong guest-focused approach, aligned with luxury hospitality standards • 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.
