South Africa: Head Chef posted by Kendrick Recruitment

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

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.