**URGENT**IMMEDIATE START**We are seeking a talented and passionate Sous Chef to join our client's prestigious lodge in Sabi Sabi, renowned for its luxurious safari experience and world-class culinary offerings. As a key member of the kitchen team, the Sous Chef will assist in overseeing kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, hygiene, and presentation, and helping create exceptional dining experiences for guests. The ideal candidate will have a strong culinary background, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for high-end hospitality.( MUST BE WILLING TO RELOCATE)
Key Responsibilities:
• Assisting the Head Chef: Support the Head Chef in daily kitchen operations, ensuring the smooth running of all food preparation and service. Oversee kitchen staff and ensure they are motivated, skilled, and following all processes correctly.
• Food Preparation and Quality Control:
• Ensure all dishes are prepared to the highest standards in terms of quality, taste, presentation, and hygiene.
• Supervise food preparation during service, ensuring efficient and timely execution.
• Ensure consistency in all dishes and maintain high levels of creativity in the preparation of menus and daily specials.
• Staff Management and Development:
• Supervise and manage kitchen staff, including junior chefs and kitchen assistants.
• Provide training, coaching, and performance feedback to ensure the team meets performance standards.
• Assist with staff scheduling to ensure appropriate coverage during peak service times.
• Inventory and Stock Management:
• Help manage inventory levels and stock ordering to ensure all ingredients are available while minimizing waste.
• Monitor and control stock rotation, ensuring proper storage and adherence to food safety standards.
• Health, Safety, and Hygiene Compliance:
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health, and hygiene standards (HACCP).
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen areas, ensuring all equipment is used safely and is in good working order.
• Perform regular cleaning tasks as required by the lodge's hygiene protocols.
• Menu Development and Innovation:
• Assist in the development and innovation of new dishes and menus, in line with the lodge's culinary vision.
• Work alongside the Head Chef to adjust menus based on seasonal availability, guest preferences, and dietary requirements.
• Guest Interaction:
• Occasionally engage with guests to understand their preferences and feedback, helping to tailor dining experiences.
• Ensure any special dietary requests or preferences are accommodated and executed to perfection.
Key Skills and Qualifications:
• Experience: At least 3-5 years of experience in a high-end kitchen environment, with previous experience as a Sous Chef or in a senior kitchen role. Experience in a luxury lodge or resort is highly desirable.
• Education: A formal culinary qualification (e.g., culinary diploma or equivalent) is preferred.
• Skills:
• Strong culinary skills with a passion for high-quality food preparation and presentation.
• Excellent organizational and leadership abilities.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards (HACCP, health regulations).
• Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment and maintain high standards of work.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse team and lead by example.
• Personal Attributes:
• A strong passion for food and hospitality, with a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences.
• Creative, innovative, and willing to push the boundaries of traditional cuisine.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative when required.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability to different service styles and guest needs.
This is an exciting opportunity to work in one of the most prestigious and sought-after lodges in Sabi Sabi, offering an unforgettable work environment. The lodge offers a competitive salary, accommodation, and benefits, alongside the chance to contribute to an exceptional guest experience in one of the world's top luxury safari destinations.