Executive Chef

Job description / Role

Are you a passionate, performance-driven culinary leader ready to take charge of an established hotel kitchen operation? We are looking for an Executive Chef to lead our culinary team, uphold our brand standards, and deliver consistently high-quality cuisine and guest satisfaction.

This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified and experienced chef to contribute to a culture of excellence, innovation, and professionalism within a dynamic hotel group.

Key Responsibilities Operational Excellence
• Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations with a strong focus on food quality, hygiene, cost control, and team productivity.
• Direct food preparation and presentation to ensure consistency and high standards.
• Monitor stock levels, manage procurement through approved vendors, and reduce wastage.
• Introduce new culinary techniques and stay ahead of hospitality trends.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and hygiene protocols and internal audit requirements.

Leadership & People Development
• Inspire and guide the kitchen team with strong leadership and mentoring.
• Conduct regular performance appraisals and support professional development.
• Ensure all training and upskilling is aligned with company and industry requirements.
• Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and high morale.

Financial Accountability
• Work with the General Manager and F&B teams to set pricing strategies and budgets.
• Manage inventory, purchasing, and cost control to drive profitability.
• Prepare for financial audits, month-end reports, and year-end close-outs.

Guest Experience & Brand Loyalty
• Elevate guest satisfaction through exceptional culinary standards and service.
• Collaborate with front-of-house teams to enhance menu offerings and guest interaction.
• Support implementation of brand initiatives and uphold service excellence.

Other Requirements:
• A strong ethical approach, particularly in handling finances and procurement Solid working knowledge of food costing, kitchen operations, team leadership, and food safety regulations

Key Skills & Competencies
• Culinary creativity and attention to detail
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Ability to coach, mentor, and lead teams effectively
• Proactive problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Effective communication across all levels
• Business and financial acumen
• Deep understanding of guest-centric hospitality

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior culinary leadership role (e.g., Executive Chef, Head Chef, or similar), preferably in a fine dining, hotel, lodge, or high-volume kitchen environment
• Proven track record in kitchen management, team leadership, and delivering consistently high-quality food
• Culinary diploma or formal chef qualification from a recognized institution (e.g., City & Guilds, HTA, Capsicum, etc.)
• Food Safety / Health & Hygiene certification (e.g., HACCP, Food Handler’s Certificate, or equivalent)
• Strong understanding of food cost control, menu planning, portion control, stock management, and kitchen budgeting
• Expertise in recipe development, plating, and modern cooking techniques
• Experience with staff training, performance management, and building a cohesive brigade
• Ability to design seasonal menus and execute functions or special events
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office, stock control systems, ordering platforms)
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Calm under pressure with strong problem-solving and time management abilities
• Driver’s license and own reliable transport (advantageous but not always essential depending on location)

Salary:
USD 2,772 to 2,778 per month inclusive of fixed allowances.

About the Company

Seasoned Recruitment is a world-class level hospitality recruitment service to the leading and influential brands of hospitality globally.

We have a very strong presence in South Africa, the UAE, the Middle East and Europe.

We are honoured by our clients’ trust in our ability to provide exceptional staffing solutions and tailor-made personalised niche-position placements to their establishments.