Executive Chef(Botswana)

Permanent

Ref #18963-ZMO

zimkhithacv@pcs-sa.co.za
Employer Description
Safari Lodge in Botswana
Job Description

Our client is seeking an Executive Chef to steward the culinary vision, delivering an immersive dining experience rooted in authenticity, sustainability, and refined luxury. Beyond kitchen management, this leader is a storyteller and innovator, crafting seasonal, culturally connected gastronomic journeys that embody luxury, individuality and celebration of local heritage.

Key Responsibilities:

Culinary Artistry & Storytelling

  • Design and deliver menus that celebrate regional identity, local produce, and seasonal availability
  • Translate the safari experience into cuisine through storytelling, presentation, and ingredient provenance
  • Curate bespoke dining moments (bush dinners, interactive experiences, private dining) that elevate guest engagement
  • Uphold world-class standards in flavour, technique, and visual excellence

Guest Experience Excellence

  • Act as a visible culinary ambassador, engaging with guests to personalize and enrich their experience
  • Anticipate guest preferences and dietary requirements with precision and creativity
  • Transform feedback into continuous refinement of the culinary offering
  • Collaborate seamlessly with Front of House to deliver fluid, intuitive, and memorable service

Leadership & Culture

  • Inspire, mentor and develop a high-performing culinary brigade grounded in respect, discipline and pride
  • Foster a culture aligned with these values: humility, excellence, authenticity and passion
  • Build strong succession pipelines through structured training and coaching
  • Lead by example, maintaining composure and excellence in high-pressure, remote environments

Sustainability & Provenance

  • Champion sustainable sourcing, prioritizing local farmers, ethical suppliers, and environmentally responsible practices
  • Minimize waste through innovative menu planning and disciplined kitchen controls
  • Embed a “farm-to-table” philosophy that enhances both guest experience and community impact

Operational & Financial Excellence

  • Drive financial performance through effective food cost management, forecasting and procurement strategies
  • Maintain rigorous control over stock, wastage, and portion consistency
  • Ensure compliance with hygiene, food safety, and operational standards
  • Align kitchen operations with business demands while optimizing labour efficiency

Planning & Resource Management

  • Collaborate with procurement to secure premium-quality ingredients aligned with brand standards
  • Ensure best practices in receiving, storage, and inventory control
  • Strategically plan staffing structures to support fluctuating occupancy levels
Qualifications
  • Formal Culinary Arts / Food Production qualification from a recognized culinary institute
  • 3–5 years’ experience in an Executive Chef or equivalent role within luxury hospitality
  • Proven experience in remote lodge or boutique luxury environments (highly advantageous)
  • Demonstrated ability to train, mentor, and build culinary teams
  • Strong administrative and computer proficiency
  • Resilient, adaptable and solutions-driven mindset
  • Food portfolio
Skills
  • Refined culinary expertise with a strong creative identity
  • Advanced leadership and team development capability
  • Strong commercial and financial acumen
  • Exceptional attention to detail and presentation
  • Cultural awareness and ability to operate in remote, diverse environments
  • Passion for sustainability and conservation-driven hospitality
Salary/Package
Package is market related depending on experience
Benefits

Depending on experience

Job Post Expiration
2026-08-09

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