Organisation: African Parks

Position: Sous Chef

Employment Type: Full-Time

Contract Type: One-Year Contract (Renewable Based on Performance)

Location: Majete Wildlife Reserve, Chikwawa, Malawi

Reporting To: Head Chef

Application Deadline: Not Specified

OVERVIEW

African Parks is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates for the position of Sous Chef at Majete Wildlife Reserve in Chikwawa.

The successful candidate will support the Head Chef in preparing and presenting high-quality meals for guests at Thawale Lodge, Mwembezi Restaurant, the Majete Conference Centre, staff catering, and special events. The role also involves maintaining high standards of food quality, hygiene, stock control, and guest satisfaction while deputising for the Head Chef when required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Food Preparation & Quality Control

• Prepare and present high-quality meals that meet hospitality standards.
• Develop and implement seasonal six-day menus.
• Conduct food tasting and quality control checks before service.
• Cater to guest preferences while maintaining nutritional value and menu variety.

Kitchen Operations

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the kitchen.
• Supervise daily kitchen cleaning and sanitation procedures.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health regulations.
• Monitor and report maintenance needs for kitchen equipment.

Stock & Cost Management

• Monitor food stock levels and minimise wastage.
• Implement the First-In, First-Out (FIFO) stock management system.
• Calculate recipe costs and optimise ingredient usage.
• Conduct regular stock takes and monitor inventory.

Staff Supervision & Guest Experience

• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff.
• Accommodate dietary requirements and special meal requests.
• Support the planning of special dining experiences such as bush dinners.
• Coordinate meal schedules with relevant departments.

Compliance & Safety

• Enforce kitchen safety procedures and hygiene standards.
• Ensure proper use of kitchen equipment and fire safety measures.
• Monitor food freshness and safely dispose of expired products.
• Ensure staff wear appropriate uniforms and comply with safety protocols.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Education

• Diploma in Culinary Arts, Food and Beverage, or Catering Services from a recognised institution.
• Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE).

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years' experience in a similar role or as a Sous Chef.
• Experience using computerised stock management systems.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Good written and spoken English.
• Strong computer skills, particularly Microsoft Excel. Experience with Tall Order and MyStock is an added advantage.
• Driver’s licence is an added advantage.
• Strong interest in wildlife conservation.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Excellent culinary and food presentation skills.
• Strong organisational and time management abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong teamwork and leadership skills.
• Good problem-solving and communication abilities.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Applicants must be Malawian citizens or have the legal right to work in Malawi.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested candidates should submit:

• Cover letter.
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• At least three traceable referees.

Copies of certificates are not required at this stage.

Apply online: africanparks.simplify.hr

If you do not receive feedback within two weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

African Parks is an equal opportunity employer.