The Capital Hotels & Apartments has announced an Executive Chef vacancy based in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, with a closing date of 28 February 2026. This opportunity is ideal for experienced culinary professionals seeking a leadership role within a reputable and growing hotel group in South Africa’s hospitality sector. The position offers a chance to lead kitchen operations at a high standard while contributing to guest satisfaction, food innovation, and operational excellence.
Job Overview
The Executive Chef will be responsible for overseeing all kitchen and food production operations within the hotel. This includes menu planning, food preparation, kitchen staff management, cost control, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. The role requires a strong balance between creativity, leadership, and operational discipline.
As a senior management role, the Executive Chef will work closely with hotel management, food and beverage teams, procurement departments, and external suppliers to ensure consistent quality and service delivery. The position is full-time and based in Melrose Arch, one of Gauteng’s premier business and lifestyle hubs.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to manage the kitchen team efficiently, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance management. Responsibilities also include developing menus that meet brand standards while responding to guest preferences and seasonal trends.
The Executive Chef will be accountable for food cost control, stock management, waste reduction, and maintaining profitability without compromising quality. Ensuring compliance with food safety standards, hygiene regulations, and internal policies is a critical part of the role. In addition, the chef will oversee banquet and event catering where applicable, ensuring high standards for conferences, functions, and special events.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants for this role should have significant experience in professional kitchens, particularly within hotels, resorts, or large hospitality establishments. A minimum of 5 to 8 years’ culinary experience is typically expected, with at least 3 years in a senior or executive chef position.
Strong leadership and team management skills are essential, along with proven experience in menu development and kitchen operations. Candidates must demonstrate excellent organisational skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a clear understanding of food cost management and budgeting.
Qualifications
A formal culinary qualification is required for this role. This may include a Diploma in Professional Cookery, Culinary Arts, or an equivalent hospitality qualification from a recognised institution. Additional certifications in food safety, hygiene, or hospitality management will be advantageous.
Candidates with further training in hotel management, food and beverage management, or business operations will be considered strong contenders, as the role involves strategic planning and collaboration with senior management.
Skills and Competencies
The ideal Executive Chef should possess strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and be capable of leading diverse teams. Creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for food excellence are critical. Computer literacy for menu costing, reporting, and stock systems is also important.
A clear understanding of South African food safety regulations and industry best practices is mandatory. Flexibility to work weekends, public holidays, and extended hours when required is expected in this senior hospitality role.
Fields Offered and Career Growth
This position falls within the Hospitality and Culinary Arts field, specifically hotel food and beverage management. It offers long-term career growth opportunities within a national hotel group, including potential progression to regional or group executive chef roles.
Professionals in this field gain valuable experience in leadership, operational management, and high-volume hospitality environments, which can open doors to executive hospitality management positions locally and internationally.
Closing Date
Applications for the Executive Chef position at The Capital Hotels & Apartments close on 28 February 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare a detailed CV highlighting leadership experience, culinary achievements, and relevant qualifications.
This role presents an excellent opportunity for experienced chefs to advance their careers within a respected hotel brand in Gauteng’s competitive hospitality industry.
Email : 📧 careers@thecapital.co.za