Head Chef

SUMMARY:
𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗙 – 𝗨𝗣𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗧 | 𝗠𝗘𝗟𝗥𝗢𝗦𝗘 𝗔𝗥𝗖𝗛, 𝗝𝗢𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗕𝗨𝗥𝗚
📍 Rosebank / Melrose Arch Precinct | Johannesburg | Full-Time | On-Site

Minimum 5 years’ senior kitchen management experience | Culinary diploma essential | Expertise in à la carte & buffet service | Hands-on kitchen leadership

Lead. Innovate. Elevate Excellence.
Hospitality Hire is recruiting on behalf of an upmarket restaurant in Johannesburg’s premium Melrose Arch precinct. This stylish and vibrant venue delivers a high-end dining experience combining luxury, innovation, and bold flavours. We are seeking an experienced, creative, and hands-on Head Chef to lead the kitchen and drive culinary excellence.

The Role

POSITION INFO:

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team in delivering premium à la carte and buffet offerings
• Drive high-quality food presentation across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and room service
• Ensure hygiene, cleanliness, and food safety standards are consistently met
• Perform regular stock takes, manage purchasing, and liaise with suppliers
• Innovate and update seasonal menus in collaboration with management
• Monitor kitchen equipment and maintenance needs
• Oversee kitchen scheduling in line with budget and operational forecasts
• Enforce discipline, hygiene, grooming, and performance standards across the team
• Maintain accurate training records and support team growth
• Collaborate on F&B planning and attend operational meetings

Minimum Requirements

• Diploma or formal culinary qualification from a recognised institution
• Valid food safety and hygiene certification
• First aid and fire safety training (advantageous)
• Minimum 5 years’ experience as Head Chef or Executive Chef in a fast-paced, premium restaurant or hotel
• Proven ability to manage, mentor, and train a kitchen team
• Strong understanding of GP%, food margins, stock control, and menu costing
• South African citizenship or valid residency (no work permits offered)
• Excellent communication, planning, and leadership skills