Group Executive Chef
A fast-growing South African hotel group, managing a portfolio of 24 properties ranging from 3-star to 4-star classifications across the country is seeking to appoint a Group Executive Chef. This is not a traditional kitchen-based role; it requires a visionary and operationally astute leader with a passion for delivering unforgettable Food & Beverage experiences across multiple properties. The right candidate will understand that F&B is a cornerstone of hospitality and will be integral in making our hotels known for culinary excellence and guest dining experiences that create lasting memories.
To apply, please send a CV by email to:
- Key Overview
- Title: Group Executive Chef
- Location: National (travel required across all 24 hotels)
- Sector: Hospitality (3-star and 4-star hotels)
- Start Date: As soon as possible
- Reporting To: Group Operations
- Salary is negotiable.
Candidate Profile
We require an individual who is:
- Culinary-driven but also highly capable in F&B operational management, both front- and back-of-house.
- A natural leader with a passion for innovation, guest satisfaction, and developing talent.
- A champion of creativity and continuous improvement – someone who will push culinary boundaries and never settle for mediocrity.
- Energetic, dynamic, and hungry to grow with the group.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership:
- Set and maintain high culinary standards across all properties.
- Inspire and lead kitchen brigades and executive chefs at each location.
- Design innovative menus that elevate guest experiences.
Operational Excellence:
- Manage all aspects of food production, procurement, and service delivery.
- Oversee kitchen operations and hygiene across the portfolio.
- Collaborate with GMs and F&B Managers to ensure seamless operations.
Financial & Strategic Oversight:
- Drive financial performance by managing food costs, inventory, and waste.
- Ensure alignment with budgets and operational goals.
- Implement group-wide cost-saving strategies without compromising quality.
Talent Development:
- Recruit, mentor, and manage chefs and culinary staff across locations.
- Build a strong bench of talent capable of delivering excellence consistently.
- Cultivate a positive, accountable, and learning-focused kitchen culture.
Guest Experience & Brand Leadership:
- Reinforce our brand through signature food experiences.
- Collaborate with marketing to promote culinary initiatives and events.
- Stay abreast of global trends and integrate them locally where appropriate.
Minimum Requirements
- Proven experience in a multi-property Executive Chef or Group Executive Chef role.
- Expertise in menu design, food costing, kitchen systems, and F&B operations.
- Experience managing large-scale hotel kitchens with volume and variety.
- Valid passport and willingness to travel extensively within South Africa.
- Relevant Culinary or Hospitality Qualification.
This is a high-impact strategic appointment. The selected candidate will be instrumental in helping shape our culinary future and position our hotels as F&B destinations of choice.