South Africa: Executive Chef – Ultra-Luxury Boutique Lodge – Greater Hoedspruit | Sl posted by Kendrick Recruitment

Executive Chef – Ultra-Luxury Boutique Lodge – Greater Hoedspruit, Limpopo Kendrick Recruitment is searching for an exceptionally talented and technically accomplished Executive Chef for one of South Africa’s most prestigious safari lodges – a 5-star luxury property set within a Big Five private game reserve in the Greater Kruger Park area near Hoedspruit, Limpopo. This intimate lodge offers a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive dining experience across multiple settings – from bush picnics and sundowner canapés to star-lit private dinners and intimate wine cellar events – where cuisine is, by the property’s own standard, an absolute non-compromise. This is a role for a chef who takes their craft deeply seriously and has the credentials to prove it. Minimum Requirements: Formal culinary qualification from a recognised institution – graduates of ICA, Prue Leith or internationally equivalent culinary schools strongly preferred Proven track record as an Executive Chef or Head Chef within a luxury lodge, fine dining restaurant or 5-star hotel environment – essential and non-negotiable Fine dining background with a refined, contemporary approach to cuisine – essential Strong understanding of seasonal, locally sourced and sustainable produce Exceptional menu development and presentation skills Sound financial management including food costing, budgeting, stock control and supplier relationships Strong leadership and kitchen management ability Ability to work and thrive in a remote, live-in bush environment Comfortable engaging directly with guests in an intimate, personalised lodge setting Impeccable references and a comprehensive food portfolio – non-negotiable Stable career history Key Responsibilities: Take full creative and operational ownership of the lodge’s culinary offering across all dining occasions Design, develop and execute innovative menus aligned with existing standards and the property’s gastronomic philosophy Lead, mentor and develop a small, dedicated kitchen team Manage all aspects of kitchen operations including food costing, stock control, ordering and supplier management Deliver consistently exceptional standards of presentation, taste and hygiene Create memorable, personalised dining experiences across multiple settings including the dining room, boma, al fresco deck and private wine cellar Collaborate closely with lodge management on guest experience, special occasions and VIP hosting Package: Gross Salary: R30,000 – R40,000 per month (DOE) Live-in: Single accommodation provided Meals on duty Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, a detailed food portfolio, contactable references and a recent head & shoulders photo ASAP! Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.