Certified Executive Chef (CEC)

Location

Kenya, East Africa (Willing to take on expats)

Job Type

Permanent, full-time (Prior bush based experiences in non negotiable)

Industry

Travel, Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality

Job Description

The Certified Executive Chef leads the culinary operations within a hospitality setting, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety, and presentation. This role requires the planning, directing and overseeing of all kitchen activities to deliver exceptional dining experiences aligned with the organisation’s brand and customer expectations. The Executive Chef manages staff, controls budgets, and maintains compliance with health and safety regulations. The position demands creativity, strong leadership, and excellent organisational skills to successfully meet the demands of a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Job Duties

• Develop, plan and execute menus that reflect the establishment’s culinary style and customer preferences, ensuring variety, quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Supervise and coordinate the activities of kitchen personnel, including training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Monitor food preparation and presentation standards to maintain consistency and compliance with hospitality industry standards.
• Manage food inventory, procurement and supplier relationships to ensure availability of fresh ingredients while minimising waste and controlling costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene and health regulations, conducting regular inspections and training sessions.
• Oversee kitchen equipment maintenance, ensuring all tools and machinery are in safe and working order.
• Collaborate with other departments to plan catering for events, banquets and special functions.
• Prepare and manage kitchen budgets, including labour costs, food costs and capital expenditure.
• Innovate and introduce new recipes and cooking techniques to enhance the culinary offerings and maintain competitive advantage.
• Lead by example, fostering a positive working environment that encourages creativity, teamwork and professional development.

Required Qualifications

• Certification as an Executive Chef from a recognised professional culinary body.
• Valid food hygiene and safety certification, compliant with local regulations.

Education

• Diploma or degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management or a related field is preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of five years’ experience in a senior culinary role, preferably within the travel, leisure, tourism or hospitality sectors.
• Proven track record of managing large kitchen teams and operations in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working in international or multicultural settings is advantageous.

Knowledge and Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of culinary techniques, menu development, and food presentation.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Sound understanding of budget management and cost control.
• Ability to maintain high standards of hygiene and safety in the kitchen.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in using kitchen management software and standard office applications is advantageous.
• Creativity and innovation in culinary arts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional qualifications or certifications in nutrition, food science or hospitality management.
• Experience in sustainable and locally sourced food practises.
• Multilingual abilities relevant to the East African region.

Working Conditions

• The role requires working in a commercial kitchen environment, which can be hot, noisy and demanding.
• The position involves standing for extended periods and handling kitchen equipment safely.
• Hours may include early mornings, evenings, weekends and public holidays to accommodate hospitality service demands.
• Occasional travel within the region may be necessary for training, supplier visits or special events.
• 3 months on 1 month off. Not suitable for families or pets

Please email me CVS and food portfolios to .za / (***)***-****35 I will not respond to CVS without food portfolios.