Executive Chef – ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest | Hospitality and Culinary Management Jobs in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal
Position: Executive Chef
Location: Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Company: ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest
Job Type: Permanent | Full-Time
Industry: Hospitality | Culinary | Food & Beverage
Department: Culinary
Education Level: Diploma / Advanced Certificate in Professional Cookery (Essential)
Closing Date: 18 August 2025
Reference Number: AHR250619-2
About ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest
Nestled in the heart of the tranquil Ingeli Forest near Kokstad, ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest is known for its unique combination of modern hospitality and natural surroundings. With world-class conference facilities, exceptional dining experiences, and a serene forest setting, the resort attracts both leisure and corporate guests.
As part of the growing ANEW Hotels & Resorts group, Ingeli Forest Resort offers employees the opportunity to work in a dynamic, professional environment committed to service excellence, staff development, and industry-leading standards.
Role Overview
ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Executive Chef to oversee all culinary operations at the property. This is a vital leadership role responsible for ensuring an efficient, cost-effective, and world-class food service experience for guests.
The ideal candidate will be passionate about food, possess strong leadership and management skills, and be capable of driving operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and financial performance within the culinary department.
This position requires someone who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment, maintains high standards of food quality and presentation, and fosters a motivated and collaborative kitchen team.
Minimum Requirements
-
Completed Diploma in Professional Cookery (Essential)
-
Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a similar hospitality environment
-
Excellent knowledge of food cost management and menu planning
-
Strong management and leadership abilities, with the ability to effectively train and guide kitchen staff
-
Hands-on experience with conference catering and large-scale food preparation
-
Good knowledge of Plus Point system for stock control and ordering processes
-
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
-
A keen eye for detail, creativity, and innovation in food presentation
Key Responsibilities
Financial and Operational Management
-
Manage food procurement processes, ensuring quality standards and cost control measures are maintained
-
Maintain food cost percentages at or below company standards (34%)
-
Ensure portion control is implemented across all menus
-
Oversee the entire food production process, ensuring consistency in quality and presentation
-
Conduct monthly stock counts of all operating equipment and food stock
-
Implement systems for effective stock management, purchasing, and receiving of food supplies
-
Review daily revenue reports and address any internal or external food charge discrepancies
-
Submit specialized event menus for management approval within required deadlines
-
Control waste management processes and minimize food wastage
Customer Service and Guest Relations
-
Personally greet guests during meal times, ensuring guest satisfaction
-
Address and resolve guest complaints promptly, providing feedback to the kitchen team
-
Ensure buffet setups, à la carte offerings, and food presentations meet the highest brand standards
-
Encourage and monitor the use of guest feedback platforms, such as Guest Revu, to continuously improve service levels
-
Ensure all kitchen team members uphold professionalism, cleanliness, and a customer-centric attitude at all times
Process and Compliance
-
Maintain strict adherence to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
-
Manage and document stock takes on the 10th, 20th, and last day of each month
-
Ensure full compliance with health and safety regulations, including proper sanitation of workspaces and adherence to FIFO principles
-
Oversee hygiene, cleanliness, and maintenance of all kitchen equipment and storage areas
-
Coordinate pest control measures and waste disposal processes
-
Enforce the use of standard recipes and monitor food quality through regular tastings
-
Conduct monthly deep cleaning schedules and manage equipment service requirements
People Leadership and Development
-
Lead the kitchen team by setting a positive example through professionalism, punctuality, and work ethic
-
Foster a culture of teamwork, motivation, and respect within the department
-
Provide continuous on-the-job training to all kitchen staff, ensuring skills development and compliance with standards
-
Manage staff rosters, leave schedules, and timesheets effectively
-
Promote sound industrial relations through regular staff meetings and one-on-one performance discussions
-
Uphold company policies, procedures, and disciplinary standards consistently
-
Maintain high levels of employee engagement and retention through coaching and mentorship
What ANEW Resort Offers
-
The opportunity to work in a prestigious, nature-based resort environment
-
A competitive salary package, including benefits aligned with hospitality industry standards
-
Career advancement within the growing ANEW Hotels & Resorts group
-
Access to staff wellness programmes and training initiatives
-
The chance to lead and develop a high-performing kitchen team in a resort renowned for excellence
Equal Opportunity Employer
ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity employment. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds who meet the relevant qualifications and experience requirements.
How to Apply
If you are a passionate, experienced culinary professional ready to take on a leadership role at one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most scenic resorts, apply today.
Closing Date: 18 August 2025
Explore More Hospitality Jobs in KwaZulu-Natal
✔ Latest Hotel and Resort Jobs in KwaZulu-Natal
✔ Culinary and Chef Jobs Across South Africa
✔ Hospitality Management Positions Now Hiring
Visit Jobs and Career Opportunities South Africa for the latest hospitality, culinary, and management job openings.
