South Africa: Executive Chef – Kruger National Park posted by Phoenix Recruitment

An extraordinary opportunity awaits a passionate and experienced Executive Chef for two luxury lodges (total of 20 rooms) nestled deep within the Kruger National Park . Duties: Menu design & costings for lodge dining (bush breakfasts, boma dinners, fine dining plating). Cost control, waste reduction, and ordering efficiency. Procurement & stock control with limited deliveries. Planning essential. Controlling the departmental budget by staying within the budget or motivating reasons for going over budget. Ensure that stock rotation is adhered to. Month end stock take, together with the stock controller. Team leadership of multi-cultural kitchen staff and trainees. Menu planning aligned with lodge budgets and guest expectations. Training and mentoring of junior chefs, interns, and all kitchen staff. Scheduling, delegation, and performance management. Training and mentorship experience and staff development programs Ensure that discipline is maintained in your department. Handle all disciplinary issues in conjunction with the Resident Manager. Visit Camps at least twice a week and see that standards are being kept up. Be on the “floor” on a regular basis and ensure that buffets are replenished and looking fresh. Draw up leave roster for the staff in your department. Performance management: monitor staff performance and provide feedback. Ensure kitchen equipment faults are reported to the maintenance manager. Requirements: Grade 12 Diploma or degree in Professional Cookery, Culinary Arts, or equivalent from a recognized institution. City & Guilds or equivalent certification preferred. Minimum 5–7 years’ professional kitchen experience, with at least 3 years in a senior or executive chef role. Valid Food Safety/Hygiene Certificate (HACCP knowledge essential). High personal hygiene and presentation standards. Knowledge of health and safety regulations, kitchen audits, and compliance with local food legislation. Calm under pressure, organized, and solution driven. Adaptable to remote living and bush conditions (limited connectivity, wildlife proximity, etc.). Passion for sustainability and local sourcing is often highly valued. Experience with special diets Computer literacy – Excel for stock control, menu costing and Plus point. Valid driver’s licence and able to drive at night between camps when required