Head Chef - World-Renowned 5* Safari Lodge - Sabi Sand | SL

Head Chef - World-Renowned Luxury Safari Lodge - Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga

Kendrick Recruitment is searching for an exceptional, creative and technically accomplished Head Chef for one of Africa's most celebrated and globally awarded luxury safari companies, operating iconic lodges in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Mpumalanga.

This is a brand that sets the global benchmark for luxury safari hospitality. Their culinary offering is a central pillar of the guest experience - not an afterthought - and the standard expected here reflects that. We are looking for a Head Chef of genuine calibre: technically strong, deeply creative, a committed leader and someone who takes personal pride in every single plate that leaves the kitchen.

Please note: This is a live-in position within a remote reserve. Fine-dining luxury lodge experience at the highest level is an absolute non-negotiable requirement. General restaurant or hotel candidates without comparable lodge experience will not be considered.

Minimum Requirements:3-year formal culinary qualification or minimum 4 years' experience in a comparable Head Chef role - essential

Proven Head Chef or senior culinary leadership experience in a world-class luxury lodge or fine dining environment - essential and non-negotiable

Strong menu design skills with wide food knowledge and awareness of international culinary trends

Full understanding of food costing, kitchen budgeting and waste reduction

Proficient in pastry, including breads, croissants, Danish pastries, ice-creams, sorbets, cakes and desserts

Strong awareness of dietary requirements and allergen management

Proven ability to train, mentor and develop a kitchen team

Sound understanding of labour law and disciplinary procedures

Full HACCP and kitchen hygiene compliance knowledge

Good computer literacy

Excellent communication skills

Genuine passion for sustainability and conservation-led lodge operations

Valid South African ID or valid working visa - essential

Stable work history with outstanding, contactable references

Key Responsibilities:🍽️ Culinary Excellence

Manage the kitchen and maintain the highest quality of food across all sections in line with the lodge's fine dining concept

Design, develop and implement seasonal menus aligned to the lodge's culinary philosophy and food concept

Ensure the ultimate food experience for guests at every meal service

Prepare and oversee pastry items to the required standard including breads, pastries, desserts, ice-creams and sorbets

Engage effectively with guests to enhance the dining experience👥 Team Leadership & Development

Lead, train and develop the full kitchen brigade

Identify opportunities for staff growth and contribute to succession planning

Conduct performance management and disciplinary procedures in line with company policy

Facilitate kitchen shift handovers to ensure operational continuity📦 Operations & Financial Management

Run the kitchen in a cost-effective manner within an agreed budget

Manage food ordering to minimise shortages and wastage through portion control and stock rotation

Oversee the management of staff canteen meals ensuring adequate nutrition and quantity

Monitor and maintain the quality, cleanliness and care of all kitchen equipment🌿 Sustainability & Conservation

Operate within the lodge's environmental parameters and actively seek opportunities to reduce environmental impact

Actively participate in and communicate the lodge's conservation message and purpose

Implement and maintain health, safety and hygiene procedures to the highest standard

Package:

Market-related salary

Live-in: Accommodation and meals provided

Standard group benefits included

Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, a detailed food portfolio, contactable references and a recent head and shoulders photo ASAP!📌 Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.