Head Chef

THE EYE CENTRE

Date: 3 weeks ago
City: Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape
Contract type: Full time

our Café sits at the heart of our medical practice and hospital, serving as a warm and welcoming space for patients, visitors, hospital staff, and the general public alike. We believe good food plays a meaningful role in wellbeing — and we need a talented, experienced Senior Chef who understands that and takes pride in every plate.

Our menu is a mix of everything — from hearty breakfasts and light healthy meals to pastries and wholesome daily specials. You will lead our kitchen with energy, consistency, and care, ensuring every guest leaves satisfied.

  • Oversee all daily kitchen operations, food preparation, and service
  • Plan, cost, and regularly update menus to suit a diverse customer base — from hospital staff grabbing a quick lunch to visitors needing a comforting meal
  • Create daily and weekly specials that are seasonal, creative, and appealing
  • Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, taste, portion control, and presentation
  • Manage dietary requirements, allergies, and special requests with care and professionalism
  • Supervise, train, and motivate kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive team environment
  • Manage stock control, food ordering, and supplier relationships within approved budgets
  • Minimise waste through smart stock rotation and portion management
  • Ensure full compliance with health, safety, and food hygiene regulations at all times
  • Keep the kitchen clean, organised, and audit-ready
  • Collaborate with management on functions, events, and catering requirements
  • Contribute ideas for food promotions and seasonal dining experiences
  • Minimum 3 years’ experience in a senior or leadership kitchen role
  • Experience in a restaurant, café, lodge, hotel, or hospitality environment
  • Strong knowledge of menu planning, food costing, and stock management
  • Ability to cater to a wide and varied customer base, including health-conscious and dietary-specific needs
  • A formal culinary qualification or relevant certifications (preferred)
  • Strong leadership skills — calm, dependable, and respected by your team
  • Ability to work well under pressure during busy service periods
  • A genuine passion for food and for creating positive experiences through great hospitality

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