We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Head Chef to lead the kitchen at a well-established luxury safari lodge in KwaZulu-Natal. This role is ideally suited to a strong operational chef who enjoys mentoring others, introducing fresh ideas, and becoming part of a close-knit team long-term. The successful candidate will oversee a capable team of six chefs, ensuring consistently high standards while delivering quality, family-friendly cuisine that forms an integral part of the guest experience.
Minimum Requirements:
- Recognised formal culinary qualification.
- 5+ years’ experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef within a quality lodge, boutique hotel or hospitality environment.
- Previous safari lodge experience preferred.
- Proven leadership experience managing and developing kitchen teams.
- Strong knowledge of menu planning, food costing, stock control and kitchen administration.
- Excellent organisational, communication and guest interaction skills.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure in a busy operational environment.
- Stable employment history and willingness to live and work in a remote lodge setting.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage all day-to-day kitchen operations and a team of six chefs.
- Maintain consistently high food quality, presentation and service standards.
- Mentor, train and develop the existing kitchen team while fostering a positive team culture.
- Plan and introduce fresh, family-friendly menus suited to the lodge’s market.
- Oversee stock control, ordering, food costing and kitchen budgets.
- Ensure compliance with all food safety, hygiene and health regulations.
- Engage confidently with guests, including managing dietary requirements, allergies and special requests.
- Work closely with the owners and lodge management team to ensure a seamless guest experience across all departments.
The Offer:
A competitive salary (depending on experience), including live-in accommodation (private en-suite room), all meals, a roster of two cycles on and one cycle off (approximately 9 consecutive days off per month), plus 18 days annual leave.
Thank you for your application!
Kindly note that you will be redirected to the Ditto website in order to submit your application for this position.