Senior Chef De Partie - Villa, Stellenbosch

About the role

A Stellenbosch-based villa, owned by one of South Africa's oldest working farms, is looking for a Senior Chef De Partie to oversee its daily culinary operations. The role supports the Executive Chef and Head Chef and focuses on performance, profitability, guest service and compliance with hygiene, quality and operational standards. It suits a seasoned CDP or experienced private chef.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in developing seasonal menus aligned with the farm's ethos, with consistency and excellence.
• Engage warmly and professionally with guests, including personalized menu planning, and adapt quickly to last-minute changes.
• Prepare, cook, grill or braai all meals for the guest throughout their stay.
• Help manage annual operating, Capex and OE budgets, costs, controls and procedures.
• Manage cash flow and stock control.
• Lead and run training programmes, drive recipe innovation and maintain high culinary standards.
• Maintain good relationships with the Villa team, winemakers, partners and suppliers, and promote sustainable living, food and wine and authentic hospitality.
• Respect guest privacy and maintain professional boundaries with guests.

Required profile

• At least 5 years' experience in kitchen operations or private chef placements.
• Degree or diploma in Culinary Arts, Chef or Hospitality Management preferred.
• Proven success managing a team, with strong financial acumen and administrative skills.
• Able to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and in all kitchen sections if needed.
• Candidates already living in the Winelands region are preferred; only South African citizens or permanent residents are considered.

Applications go through the recruiter and must include an updated CV, certified tertiary education documents, certified reference letters and a recent photo. Only shortlisted candidates are contacted.