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.

Head Chef Luxury Food & Beverage Consultancy | Kruger National Park

Kendrick Recruitment is searching for an experienced and innovative Head Chef to join a distinguished luxury food and beverage consultancy based in the Kruger National Park. This live-in role offers an exceptional opportunity for a talented culinary professional to lead a high-performing kitchen team within one of South Africas most remarkable destinations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation

• Develop and implement seasonal menus that reflect creativity, balance, and local inspiration

• Train, mentor, and motivate kitchen staff to maintain excellence in performance and consistency

• Oversee food costing, inventory control, and supplier relationships to ensure cost efficiency

• Maintain impeccable hygiene and safety standards in compliance with health and safety regulations

• Collaborate closely with management to ensure a seamless guest dining experience

• Drive innovation and uphold the propertys culinary vision and reputation

Requirements:

• Formal culinary qualification or equivalent professional experience

• Proven track record as a Head Chef within a luxury hospitality or fine dining environment

• Strong leadership, organisational, and interpersonal skills

• Exceptional creativity and a deep understanding of modern culinary trends

• Ability to thrive under pressure in a dynamic environment

• Willingness to live and work in a remote location

Package:

• Salary: R45,000 per month (Negotiable, depending on experience)

• Live-in position

This position is ideal for a passionate and driven culinary leader seeking to make a lasting impact within a luxury, high-end hospitality environment set in the iconic Kruger National Park.