Matetsi Victoria Falls
DUE: 01 MAR 2024
Job Title: Executive Chef
Location: Matetsi Victoria Falls
Position Type: Full-time
About Us
Family-owned and independently run, Matetsi Victoria Falls is a beautifully designed, luxury safari lodge situated on the banks of the Zambezi river, within its own 136,000-acre pristine wilderness – Matetsi Private Game Reserve. Currently comprising 16 suites, two family suites and a private villa, Matetsi Victoria Falls is the realisation of the Gardiner family’s dream to showcase everything exceptional about their home country, from safari, river and Victoria Falls to Zimbabwean design talent and hospitality.
Our Culinary Ethos
Showcasing Zimbabwean talent through a variety of dining experiences and culinary delights – made with love.
Job Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled and creative Executive Chef to lead our culinary team. The Executive Chef will be responsible for designing and executing a diverse and exquisite menu that complements the unique and upscale nature of our lodge. This position requires a dynamic individual with proven leadership, culinary expertise, and a passion for delivering an extraordinary dining experience.
Key Responsibilities
Menu Development and Innovation:
Create and update menus that reflect the local flavours, seasonal ingredients, and dietary preferences.
Introduce innovative and unique culinary concepts that enhance the lodge’s reputation for exceptional dining.
Pay special attention to food presentation, ensuring dishes are visually appealing and aligned with the lodge’s aesthetic.
Kitchen Management:
Oversee the day-to-day operations of the lodge kitchens, ensuring high standards of cleanliness, organization, stock control and efficiency.
Supervise and train kitchen staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
Quality Control:
Maintain a commitment to high-quality food preparation and presentation.
Conduct regular tastings and evaluations to ensure consistency and excellence in all culinary offerings.
Sourcing and Procurement:
Manage relationships with suppliers to ensure the availability of fresh, locally sourced, and sustainable ingredients.
Negotiate contracts, monitor inventory levels, and optimize cost-effectiveness without compromising quality.
Guest Interaction:
Collaborate with the Front of House team to understand guest preferences and accommodate special requests.
Engage with guests to gather feedback and continuously improve the dining experience.
Compliance and Safety:
Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food handling guidelines, and sanitation standards.
Implement and maintain best practices for kitchen safety and cleanliness.
Budget Management:
Develop and manage the culinary budget, controlling costs and maximizing profitability.
Monitor expenses, analyse financial reports, and implement cost-saving measures.
Manage food and beverage cost.
Experience & Qualifications
Proven experience as an Executive Chef or similar role in a high-end hospitality setting.
Culinary degree or equivalent qualification.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
Creative flair and a passion for culinary innovation.
Knowledge of local and international culinary trends.
Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
Understanding of budgeting and financial management.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
TO APPLY
Application Process: Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, cover letter, and a portfolio showcasing their culinary creations to [email protected]
Applications will be accepted until 01 March 2024.