Job Description

We are looking for skilled and experienced Head Chefs with a strong background in retail food operations to lead our kitchen team. This role is ideal for a culinary professional who understands the fast-paced demands of a retail food environment, with a focus on consistency, quality, and operational efficiency.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all kitchen operations, from menu planning and food preparation to stock control and staff management. A solid understanding of food trends, retail merchandising, and customer expectations in a retail setting is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversee the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring the efficient preparation and presentation of all food items.
Develop menus that are appealing, cost-effective, and suited to a retail customer base.
Ensure consistency in food quality, portioning, and presentation across all prepared items.
Manage stock levels, conduct regular stock takes, and maintain effective supplier relationships.
Monitor and control food costs and wastage in line with budgetary targets.
Lead, train, and motivate the kitchen team to deliver high standards of performance and hygiene.
Implement and maintain strict food safety, hygiene, and health standards in accordance with HACCP.
Collaborate with the retail and front-of-house teams to align kitchen output with customer demand and promotions.
Stay up to date with food trends, customer preferences, and competitor offerings to keep the menu relevant and appealing.
Ensure all kitchen documentation, including production plans, prep sheets, and temperature logs, is accurately completed.

Requirements:

Minimum of 5 years' experience in a Head Chef role, preferably in a retail or high-volume food environment.
Formal culinary qualification preferred.
Strong leadership, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
Proven ability to manage food costings, portion control, and kitchen administration.
Excellent knowledge of food safety standards and kitchen hygiene practices.
Experience working with retail meal solutions, deli-style offerings, or ready-to-eat concepts is advantageous.
Flexible and hands-on approach with the ability to lead by example.

This role is suited to a practical, commercially minded Head Chef who enjoys the unique challenges of food production in a retail setting. If you are passionate about delivering high-quality food with consistency and efficiency, we invite you to apply.

To start 15 December for training.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: R30000,00 - R35000,00 per month

Work Location: In person

Application Deadline: 2025/07/15