Kitchen Manager / Executive Chef

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a skilled and dynamic Kitchen Manager / Executive Chef for a luxury safari lodge in the Kruger National Park. This live-in role is ideal for an experienced culinary professional with a hospitality qualification, strong leadership skills, and a passion for delivering exceptional guest dining experiences in a high-end lodge environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create, design, and implement menus that meet and exceed guest expectations in consultation with Senior Management
  


• Maintain a thorough understanding of dietary requirements and culinary styles
  


• Oversee procurement of all food and kitchen materials for the main kitchen and staff canteens
  


• Ensure hygiene, cleanliness, and maintenance of all kitchen areas, equipment, and storage facilities
  


• Develop recipes and manage cost control, budget compliance, and supplier pricing
  


• Conduct accurate monthly stock takes and manage inventory
  


• Take responsibility for the profitability of the kitchen department
  


• Lead and manage kitchen staff, including recruitment, training, performance appraisals, rostering, leave management, and disciplinary action
  


• Build and maintain a skilled, motivated, and cohesive kitchen brigade
  


• Ensure all staff are conversant with company policies, procedures, and labour regulations
  


• Assist in menu adjustments, creation of new dishes, and tasting approvals with Senior Management
  


• Provide annual equipment and supplier assessments, ensuring alignment with budget and operational needs
  


• Support kitchen team members as required and perform additional tasks as instructed by management
  

Requirements:

• Hospitality qualification
  


• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar role within luxury lodges or high-end hospitality environments
  


• Strong leadership and people management skills
  


• Excellent organisational, planning, and cost-control abilities
  


• Ability to work with culturally diverse teams and staff of varying skill levels
  


• Strong understanding of hygiene, safety, and quality standards in kitchen operations
  


• Guest-focused with a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences
  

Package & Benefits:

• Negotiable salary based on experience
  


• Live-in accommodation provided
  


• Opportunity to lead a high-end lodge kitchen and make a significant impact on the guest experience
  

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV to apply for this role.