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 propertyâs 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 hotelâs 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 propertyâs 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 yearsâ 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.
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