Head Chef

Kendrick Recruitment

Job Location:

Knysna - South Africa

Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: 5 hours ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Head Chef - 5-Star Boutique Hotel & Restaurant - Plettenberg Bay Western Cape (Position available from September 2026)

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking a talented and creative Head Chef for a well-established 5-star boutique hotel in Plettenberg Bay forming part of a respected South African boutique hospitality group. The propertys restaurant is a key feature of the guest experience offering a refined seasonally driven dining concept with a strong focus on fresh locally sourced ingredients.

Please note: This position commences in September 2026. Applications are open for early shortlisting.

Job Overview:

The Head Chef will take full responsibility for leading the kitchen operation driving culinary excellence and delivering a consistently high-end dining experience. The role requires a balance of strong leadership financial management and creative menu development with a focus on seasonal locally inspired cuisine.

Key Responsibilities:

Kitchen Leadership & Operations

Oversee all kitchen operations across the hotels dining outlets

Lead train and develop the kitchen brigade to maintain high performance standards

Ensure consistency quality and presentation across all dishes served

Manage day-to-day kitchen efficiency and workflow

Menu Development & Culinary Direction

Design and implement seasonal menus aligned with the propertys culinary vision

Develop innovative locally inspired dishes using fresh seasonal produce

Continuously refine menus based on guest feedback and industry trends

Contribute to special dining experiences private events and VIP functions

Financial & Operational Management

Manage food costs stock control and kitchen budgeting

Oversee procurement and supplier relationships

Ensure optimal cost efficiency without compromising quality

Maintain accurate kitchen records and controls

Standards & Compliance

Ensure full compliance with HACCP and food safety standards

Maintain the highest levels of hygiene and kitchen organisation

Uphold all operational and brand standards consistently

Guest Experience & Collaboration

Work closely with management to enhance the overall guest dining experience

Coordinate special events private dining and bespoke culinary experiences

Maintain strong communication with front-of-house and management teams

Experience Required:

Formal culinary qualification from a recognised institution

Minimum 5 years experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a luxury or fine dining environment

Proven experience in seasonal menu development and modern culinary techniques

Strong background in food costing stock control and kitchen financial management

Experience leading and developing a professional kitchen brigade

Full knowledge of HACCP and food safety standards

Stable work history with contactable references and a strong food portfolio

Requirements:

Passion for fresh seasonal and locally sourced ingredients

Strong leadership and team management abilities

Creative flair combined with technical culinary excellence

Ability to perform under pressure in a high-end environment

Strong organisational and time-management skills

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Professional disciplined and detail-oriented approach

Package:

Market-related salary

Live-out position

This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate and experienced Head Chef looking to take ownership of a refined culinary offering within a leading boutique hospitality environment.

Required Skills:

experience qualification

Head Chef - 5-Star Boutique Hotel & Restaurant - Plettenberg Bay Western Cape (Position available from September 2026)Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking a talented and creative Head Chef for a well-established 5-star boutique hotel in Plettenberg Bay forming part of a respected South African ...