Head Chef / Chef-Partner

SUMMARY:
My client, based in Somerset West is seeking to employ a Head Chef / Chef Partner.

The ideal candidate  will have proven experience as Head Chef / Executive Chef, or Senior Sous coupled with a strong background in cost control, GP management and kitchen administration.

POSITION INFO:
The purpose of this position will be to create and lead a new restaurant on site – either as an independent concept or under a suitable franchise brand in a partnership model where our client provides the capital and share in the profit.

The Opportunity

• Develop and lead a new restaurant from the ground up.
• Our client provides the capital investment for fit out, equipment and initial working capital.
• You operate as Chef-Partner, sharing in profits and upside.

• Concept development: menu, positioning, and overall guest experience.
• Set up the kitchen: equipment specification, supplier selection, stock and cost control systems.
• Lead daily kitchen operations: prep, service, quality, hygiene and food safety.
• Build and manage a small, high performing kitchen team.
• Work with our client on budgeting, pricing, financial controls and reporting.
• Drive innovation: seasonal menus, events, functions and corporate hospitality.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety and licensing requirements.

• Proven experience as Head Chef / Executive Chef, or Senior Sous ready to step up.
• Strong background in cost control, GP management and kitchen administration.
• Creative, with a clear food philosophy and ability to build a distinctive concept or adapt a franchise model.
• Comfortable operating in a partnership/profit share environment (entrepreneurial mindset).
• Excellent leadership, training and team management skills.
• High standards of cleanliness, organisation and consistency.
• Experience with corporate clients, functions or hotel/lodge environments will be an advantage.

• Capital funding for the restaurant set up and agreed working capital.
• Partnership/profit share structure, to be agreed based on the final business model.