Senior Sous Chef

Hoedspruit, South Africa

We are seeking a highly accomplished, energetic, and dependable Senior Sous Chef to join our elite culinary team. Operating in the heart of the bushveld, dining is a cornerstone of our guest journey. We deliver thoughtful, generous, and beautifully presented fine-dining experiences that respect local South African flavors and the surrounding wilderness.

As the second-in-command, you will support the Head Chef in leading daily back-of-house operations, ensuring consistency, and mentoring a passionate team.

Key Responsibilities

• Culinary Excellence: Oversee the production, preparation, and plating of high-quality menus ranging from bush breakfasts and elegant lunch buffets to interactive bomas and 4-star fine dining dinners.
• Operational Leadership: Run daily kitchen workflows and manage the "pass" with pace and absolute precision, confidently stepping up to lead the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence.
• Dietary Management: Expertly accommodate highly diverse guest profiles, special dietary restrictions, and strict allergy protocols.
• Stock & Cost Control: Manage inventory, complete accurate purchase orders, minimize food waste, and conduct monthly stock takes to maintain strict gross profit targets.
• Team Development: Train, mentor, and inspire junior kitchen staff and commis chefs, fostering a positive, disciplined kitchen culture.
• Hygiene & Safety: Enforce impeccable health, sanitation, and safety compliance standards (HACCP regulations) across all food preparation areas.

Requirements

Requirements & Skills

• Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of senior culinary experience, ideally within a 4- or 5-star luxury safari lodge or remote high-end resort setting.
• Education: Formal culinary arts degree or professional chef diploma is highly preferred.
• Logistics Skills: Proven understanding of remote supply chains, stock rotation (FIFO), and local supplier ordering systems.
• Leadership Attributes: Exceptional communication, problem-solving under pressure, and the ability to maintain strong synergy between front-of-house and back-of-house staff.
• Adaptability: Willingness to work flexible safari lodge hours, including weekends, holidays, and split shifts.
• Competitive salary package based on experience.
• Comfortable on-site live-in accommodation and all meals provided.
• Generous leave cycle rotation tailored for remote game reserve operations.
• Work in one of South Africa's most prestigious wilderness areas.

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