Head Chef – Luxury Lodge Kitchen

About the role

The Head Chef will lead the culinary operations at Phinda Mountain Lodge and Phinda Rock Lodge, delivering exceptional guest experiences while upholding the highest standards of hygiene, sustainability and creativity.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen sections – scullery, cold, hot and baking – ensuring compliance with hygiene standards.
• Train and mentor chefs, implement kitchen standards and maintain food styling guidelines.
• Manage stock control, rotation and ordering of all food supplies in the absence of the executive chef.
• Check quality and presentation of buffets, breakfasts, dinners and snack packs for game drives.
• Communicate with guests to gather feedback and address special dietary requirements before meals.
• Collaborate with &Beyond Food Fundi team, share ideas and maintain proactive maintenance of kitchen equipment.

Required profile

• Minimum 2 years of chef experience, preferably within &Beyond properties.
• Strong passion for kitchen management, hygiene, people leadership and guest delight.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, sense of urgency and attention to detail.
• Self‑motivated, diligent and able to meet deadlines.
• Valid driver’s licence – code 8.

Required skills

• Food safety and hygiene management
• Menu planning and food styling
• Stock control and rotation
• Team training and leadership

What we offer

• Opportunity to work in a world‑renowned conservation lodge.
• Creative freedom to develop bush‑style banquets and innovative dishes.
• Supportive team focused on sustainability and guest experience.