Senior Cook & Administrator

Reports to: Head Chef

Location: Mara

Key Responsibilities;

Culinary Responsibilities;

− Support the Head Chef and fellow Senior Chefs in overseeing that the globally renowned high standards of food served to lodge discerning 60 guests are maintained.

− As a senior member of the 24-strong kitchen brigade, prepare tried and tested dishes from lodge five-day a la carte menus.

− Ensure the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and flavour.

− Train Junior Cooks on Lodges recipes.

− Collaborate with the procurement team to ensure that we source the very best locally sourced ingredients.

− Skilled at preparing special dishes for guests with strict dietary requirements.

− Oversee the kitchen and staff meals in the canteen as needed – 160 staff.

Administrative Responsibilities;

− Support the Head Chef in managing food costs for both guests and staff ensuring financial objectives are met without compromising quality.

− Confirm timeously weekly orders with lodge Nairobi-based procurement team.

− Ensure any special ingredients that need to be sourced from the support team in South Africa – kosher meat and dairy as examples.

− Oversee inventory control to maintain a seamless supply chain.

− Oversee that kitchen hygiene standards are kept at the highest level.

− Develop and implement efficient kitchen procedures and workflows to enhance productivity.

− Schedule and manage kitchen staff, including training, assisting with leave management and shift planning.

− Work closely with other departments to coordinate events, special dinners, and guest experiences.

− Uphold the lodge commitment to health, safety, and hygiene standards.

Key qualities of the successful candidate;

− Exceptional culinary skills with a keen understanding of what our international and well-travelled guests expect.

− Strong administrative and organizational abilities.

− Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

− Competent manager of a kitchen brigade

− Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where guests come first always.

Key qualifications;

− Proven experience as a Senior Chef in a luxury safari lodge

− Culinary degree or equivalent qualifications from a reputable institution.

− Good computer literacy – Excel in particular