Hluhluwe: Executive Chef posted by Kendrick Recruitment

About the Role

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Executive Chef to lead the kitchen operations at a prestigious luxury lodge in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal. This live-in role is perfect for a creative culinary professional with a passion for delivering world-class food experiences in a high-end bush hospitality setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain the highest standards of kitchen hygiene and cleanliness
• Train, mentor, and guide all chefs while implementing kitchen standards
• Ensure correct cleaning chemicals and sufficient supplies are always in stock
• Plan and execute a 7-day menu according to the Food Styling Guide
• Monitor presentation, quality, and freshness of all meals and platters
• Keep up-to-date with culinary trends and guest preferences
• Lead creative bush banqueting experiences according to the Food Styling Guide
• Proactive maintenance of kitchen equipment and facilities
• Maintain effective communication with all chefs, camp managers, HODs, lodge management, and suppliers
• Monitor stock control, rotation, and storeroom organization
• Manage food orders, fridges, deep freezers, and leftover processes
• Ensure all vehicles and containers transporting food are spotless
• Maintain checklists for all items going to camps
• Supervise and check buffets, dinners, breakfasts, and meals at each camp at least three times per week
• Restrict kitchen traffic to essential personnel only
• Keep all fridges, refrigerators, and storerooms secure
• Cost all menus and ensure adherence to COS; provide explanations and corrective actions for any overs
• Implement and enforce all health protocols, including COVID measures
• Ensure snacks for game drives, bush banquets, drink stops, and picnics meet quality standards
• Organize canteens efficiently
• Engage positively with guests and fellow chefs, encourage feedback, and share culinary ideas
• Be a role model for discipline, fair treatment, and professionalism
• Be aware of and manage special dietary requirements for guests

Requirements

• Strong communication skills with guests and staff
• Exceptional standard of culinary work
• Excellent organisational and planning abilities
• Lateral thinking and initiative
• Commitment to world-class hospitality and service standards
• Honest, proactive, integrity-driven, and career-oriented

Qualifications

• Valid unendorsed South African drivers license

Salary & Benefits

Salary: Negotiable DOE