Job Description

Closing Date: 2026-03-06
Job Type: Permanent
Job Level: Senior
Experience: Between 3 - 5 Years
EE/AA: No
Summary
Head Chef Culinary Lead - Premium Wine Estate - Stellenbosch
A well-established premium wine estate in Stellenbosch is seeking an experienced Head Chef / Culinary Lead to take full ownership of its culinary operations. This role is suited to a disciplined and hands-on leader with a strong focus on food quality costing hygiene and kitchen management, delivering consistently high standards across events and guesthouse operations.
Salary: R30 000 - R35 000 pm
Description
Reporting to the General Manager with functional oversight from the Directors, the Head Chef will manage the complete culinary function, ensuring premium food quality, accurate costing, and efficient kitchen operations. This includes overseeing food preparation for events, managing suppliers and stock, leading the kitchen team, and maintaining strict food safety and hygiene standards.
The successful candidate will play a key role in menu development and seasonal updates, balancing creativity with commercial awareness. Strong leadership, operational structure, and the ability to manage prep timelines and service delivery are essential.
Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all food preparation, cooking, and plating for events and guesthouse service
• Ensure consistent food quality, correct portioning, and minimal waste
• Prepare and maintain accurate food costings and menu pricing
• Manage kitchen staff, rosters, prep lists, and daily workflow
• Maintain high hygiene, food safety, and cleaning standards
• Control stock, manage suppliers, and check all deliveries
• Lead menu development and seasonal updates
• Ensure kitchen equipment is operational and maintained
• Provide regular reporting to management and directors

Salary: R30 000 - R35 000pm
Start: Immediate
Minimum Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Kitchen Leader
• Strong food costing, stock control, and operational management skills
• Experience in events and high-volume service environments
• Excellent leadership and communication skills
• Strong understanding of hygiene and food safety compliance

Skills Required