Head Chef

African Parks (AP)

VACANCY: HEAD CHEF – MAJETE

STATUS: One-year contract subject to renewal based on performance

African Parks (AP) is a not-for-profit organization that secures a mandate to conserve through Public Private Partnerships with Governments and communities for the rehabilitation and long-term management of protected areas in Africa, and here in Malawi, AP has secured this mandate for the management of Majete Wildlife Reserve, Liwonde National Park and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.

An opportunity has arisen for the post of Head Chef tenable at Majete Wildlife Reserve in Chikwawa

The Head Chef will directly report to the Head Chef, but also work closely with the front of house, Grounds and housekeeping departments. The Head Chef will be responsible for providing the best catering service within the tourism facilities and supervising of Majete Wildlife Reserve kitchen staff. The focus will be preparing best meals for Thawale lodge guests and Membezi restaurant guests.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE (but not limited to):

1. Food Service and Quality Control

  • Deliver high-quality meals consistently, ensuring presentation and taste meet hospitality standards.
  • Plan, prepare, and execute menus that cater to guest preferences while maintaining variety and nutritional value.
  • Develop new menu items to avoid repetition and enhance guest experience.
  • Conduct food tastina and quality control checks before service.

2. Cost Efficiency and Overhead Reduction

  • Monitor food stock levels to reduce wastage and control inventory costs.
  • Implement a First In, First Out (FIFO) food storage system to minimize food spollage.
  • Reduce excess spending by optimizing ingredient use and negotiating better supplier rates.
  • Ensure portion control is followed to maintain cost efficiency without compromising quality.

3. Kitchen Management and Hygiene

  • Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene in all food preparation areas.
  • Ensure kitchen staff follow proper sanitation procedures and health safety regulations.
  • Supervise and participate in daily kitchen cleaning, including appliances, workstations, and storage areas.
  • Oversee maintenance requests for kitchen equipment, plumbi structural repairs.

4. Hospitality and Guest Experience

  • Train and mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff to improve food service
  • Accommodate dietary restrictions and special meal requests from guests
  • Maintain a positive and welcoming kitchen environment that aligns with the hospitality ethos of Majete Wildlife Reserve.
  • Communicate with the Tourism Manager and service team to ensure seamless meal service.

5. Compliance and Operational Efficiency

  • Conduct regular stock takes of kitchen assets and cleaning products.
  • Monitor food freshness and discard out-of-date items responsibly.
  • Enforce safety regulations, ensuring that gas cylinders and electrical appliances are switched off after use
  • Ensure staff use proper uniforms and adhere to hygiene protocols.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Minimum of diploma in Culinary arts, Food and beverage or catering services obtained from a recognized institution.
  • Malawi School Certificate of Education.
  • Strong interest in wildlife conservation.
  • Minimum of 2 years of similar experience.
  • Ability to maintain a rapid and demanding pace of work.
  • Good English skills (written and spoken).
  • Ability to follow instructions accurately.
  • Good attention to detail and ability to identify problems.
  • Ability to adapt and work flexibly in our environment.
  • Ability to prioritized activities.
  • Dependable and strong work ethic
  • Passion for Conservation

Special Conditions;

• Aged between 24 to 35

African Parks is an equal opportunity Employer.

Applicants should submit their CVs with a covering letter clearly stating how their skills and experience meet the requirements of the position. At least three traceable referees should be included, but copies of certificates are not required at this stage. Applications should be emailed to recruitMalawi@africanparks.org by 16h00, 17th April, 2025. Only short-listed candidates will be acknowledged

Should you not hear back from us within 2 weeks after closing date, please take it that your application was unsuccessful.