Head Chef - Luxury Safari Lodge - Eastern Cape

Pay

R 20 000 – R 25 000 per month

Type

Permanent

Experience

1–3 years

Level

Senior

Sector

Hospitality & Catering

Closes

in 60 days

Recruiter

Hospitality Jobs Africa · All jobs at Hospitality Jobs Africa

About the role

Our client is seeking a talented, experienced and hands-on Head Chef to lead the culinary operation at an exclusive luxury safari lodge in the Eastern Cape.

This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate culinary professional who enjoys creating beautifully presented cuisine, delivering personalised dining experiences and maintaining exceptional standards within an intimate luxury hospitality environment.

The successful candidate must combine strong cooking skills with effective kitchen leadership, creativity and sound financial management.

• Oversee daily kitchen operations and all food preparation.
• Develop creative, seasonal menus suited to a luxury safari dining environment.
• Prepare and present consistently high-quality dishes.
• Cater for individual guest preferences, dietary requirements and special occasions.
• Lead, train and motivate the kitchen team.
• Maintain excellent standards of food presentation, taste and consistency.
• Manage food purchasing, stock levels and supplier relationships.
• Monitor food costs, portion control and wastage.
• Maintain strict food hygiene, HACCP and kitchen safety standards.
• Coordinate with lodge management to ensure seamless dining experiences.
• Remain actively involved in cooking, plating and service.

What they're looking for

• Recognised culinary qualification preferred.
• Proven experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready for progression.
• Previous experience within a luxury safari lodge, boutique hotel or high-end hospitality establishment highly advantageous.
• Excellent cooking, menu development and presentation skills.
• Strong understanding of food costing, stock control and kitchen administration.
• Confident managing and developing a small culinary team.
• Experience catering for international guests and diverse dietary requirements.
• Creative, organised and detail orientated.
• Hands-on leadership style and ability to work under pressure.
• Willingness to live and work in a safari lodge environment.
• Available to commence employment in November 2026.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: R20,000 – R25,000 per month
• Accommodation: Live-in accommodation provided
• Meals: Meals on duty provided
• Location: Eastern Cape
• Start Date: November 2026
• Employment: Full-time

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