Job Summary:
A prestigious 5-star property in the scenic town of Franschhoek is seeking a highly skilled Head Chef to lead its culinary team. This role involves overseeing all kitchen operations, designing creative menus, and ensuring an exceptional dining experience that meets luxury standards. The ideal candidate will effectively manage kitchen staff, control costs, and maintain strict hygiene and safety standards while upholding quality and consistency in all dishes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead, train, and inspire the kitchen team to deliver consistently high-quality dishes.
- Develop innovative and seasonal menus that reflect local flavours and meet the luxury standards of the property.
- Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency, hygiene, and compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Monitor kitchen staffing levels, schedules, and task allocations to maintain smooth and efficient operations.
- Implement and oversee food inventory and purchasing processes to control costs and minimise waste.
- Collaborate closely with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and exceptional guest satisfaction.
- Uphold property policies, procedures, and quality standards in all culinary aspects.
Requirements:
- Citizenship: South African
- Education: Culinary Arts qualification or equivalent experience in a professional kitchen.
- Experience: Minimum 5 years in a high-end kitchen environment, with proven experience in a leadership role.
Skills:
- Culinary Excellence: Advanced cooking techniques, attention to detail in food quality, and artistic presentation skills.
- Kitchen Management: Ability to handle budgeting, cost control, and accurate inventory tracking.
- Menu Development: Proficiency in designing seasonal and innovative menus that highlight local and sustainable ingredients.
- Staff Management: Strong leadership skills to recruit, train, and manage kitchen staff effectively; ability to handle conflict and promote a positive work environment.
- Time Management: Excellent organisational skills to handle multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and ensure smooth kitchen operations during peak times.
- Problem-Solving: Ability to stay composed under pressure and troubleshoot issues efficiently.
- Health & Safety: Deep understanding of food safety standards, hygiene protocols, and sanitation practices.