Head Chefs | Johannesburg | Restaurant Group

Head Chefs | Restaurants | Johannesburg

An established and growing restaurant group is seeking an experienced and passionate HEAD CHEFS to join its operations in Johannesburg.

With a portfolio of successful restaurants specialising in Steakhouse, Greek and Italian cuisine, the group is entering an exciting period of expansion with several new outlets planned.

This is an excellent opportunity for a strong culinary leaders who enjoys working in a fast-paced restaurant environment and wants to play an important role in the development and growth of a multi-outlet hospitality operation.

As the group continues to expand, the Head Chef will also be involved in supporting new restaurant openings, developing kitchen teams and implementing operational standards across the business.

Head Chefs - Key Responsibilities

Take overall responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the kitchen

Lead, manage, motivate and develop the kitchen brigade

Ensure consistently high standards of food preparation, presentation and taste

Maintain recipe consistency, portion control and presentation standards

Oversee food preparation and kitchen performance during busy services

Monitor and maintain food quality across all sections of the kitchen

Ensure efficient kitchen organisation and workflow

Manage food costs, wastage and portion control

Monitor stock levels and assist with ordering and inventory management

Ensure correct storage, rotation and handling of food products

Maintain excellent kitchen hygiene, cleanliness and food safety standards

Ensure kitchen equipment is correctly used and maintained

Assist with menu development, seasonal dishes and new food concepts

Work with management to maintain commercially viable menus

Support the introduction and implementation of new menu items

Train kitchen employees on recipes, preparation methods and presentation standards

Conduct regular performance monitoring and coaching of kitchen employees

Assist with recruitment, onboarding and training of new kitchen team members

Prepare staff rosters according to operational requirements

Maintain effective labour management while ensuring adequate staffing for service

Work closely with restaurant management and front-of-house teams

Ensure professional communication between kitchen and service teams

Maintain strong supplier relationships and monitor product quality

Assist with the opening and implementation of new restaurant outlets

Help establish consistent kitchen systems and standards across expanding operations

Identify opportunities to improve kitchen efficiency, quality and profitability

Head Chefs - Skills and Experience Required

Proven experience as a Head Chefs, Executive Sous Chefs or similar senior kitchen leader

Strong restaurant kitchen experience

Experience working within high-volume operations

Excellent knowledge of kitchen operations and food preparation

Strong understanding of meat preparation and steakhouse cooking techniques

Knowledge of Mediterranean, Greek and/or Italian cuisine would be advantageous

Good understanding of food costing and gross profit management

Strong stock control and wastage management skills

Ability to manage labour effectively

Excellent leadership and team-development abilities

Strong organisational and time-management skills

Ability to remain calm and organised during busy restaurant services

High attention to detail and consistency

Good communication skills

Strong understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety practices

Ability to train and mentor junior chefs

A hands-on management style and willingness to lead from the kitchen

What the Role Offers

Salary: between R 25000 – 40000 CTC, all depending on the experience and the outlet the Head Chefs will be appointed to.

How to Apply

To apply for Head Chefs | Restaurants | Johannesburg, please send your updated CV with a food portfolio.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

About Recruit for Africa

Recruit for Africa is a South Africa–based recruitment agency specialising in hospitality, retail, chefs, and lodge placements across Africa and international markets. Our expert recruiters guide candidates from application through onboarding, ensuring a smooth and professional hiring experience. Visit our website for more hospitality career opportunities.

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