Executive Chef - 5* Boutique Beach Hotel - Ballito, Kzn | Sl

Executive Chef - 5-Star Boutique Hotel & Spa - Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal Kendrick Recruitment is searching for an exceptional Executive Chef for one of KwaZulu-Natal's most celebrated coastal retreats - a 5-star boutique hotel and spa perched above the Indian Ocean on the Dolphin Coast, offering barefoot luxury across seven ocean-view rooms, a private villa, wellness facilities and an exquisite dining experience. This is a rare and genuinely exciting opportunity for a chef with serious fine dining credentials to take full creative ownership of a signature culinary offering at a boutique property where food is central to the guest experience. Creative freedom, intimate scale and an uncompromising standard - this role has it all. Please note: Candidates already based in the Ballito or KZN North Coast area will be given strong preference. Fine dining and luxury boutique experience is an absolute non-negotiable requirement for this role. Minimum Requirements: Formal culinary qualification from a recognised institution Proven track record as an Executive Chef or Head Chef within a luxury hotel, fine dining restaurant or leading boutique lodge - essential and non-negotiable Demonstrated creative flair with a strong eye for contemporary culinary trends, seasonal menus and wellness-inspired dining Passionate about locally sourced, sustainable produce Strong leadership, mentoring and communication skills Sound financial acumen including food costing, budgeting and supplier management Entrepreneurial spirit with the drive and vision to define and elevate a property's culinary identity Comfortable engaging directly with guests and occasionally with media and marketing Impeccable references and a strong food portfolio - non-negotiable Stable career history Key Responsibilities: Design and deliver innovative, seasonal menus that showcase the finest local and sustainable produce Lead; mentor and inspire a small, passionate kitchen team Collaborate closely with hotel leadership to create memorable and cohesive guest experiences Uphold the highest standards of presentation, taste and consistency across all dining occasions Manage food costs, budgets and supplier relationships with precision Represent the property as a culinary ambassador in guest interactions and occasional media or marketing features Package: Gross Salary: R35,000 to R40,000 per month Medical Aid contributions Provident Fund contributions Live-out position Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, a detailed food portfolio, contactable references and a recent head & shoulders photo ASAP! ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.