Sous Chef at Reeds Africa Consult

Job Summary: We are seeking a talented and experienced Sous Chef to join the restaurant culinary team. The ideal candidate should possess a strong culinary background, creative flair, and exceptional leadership skills. The Sous Chef, will responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu planning, food preparation, kitchen management, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and presentation.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef to develop innovative and diverse menus that highlight local ingredients and international influences, while ensuring alignment with the restaurant's culinary concept.
• Supervise and manage kitchen staff, providing guidance, training, and mentorship to foster a cohesive and high-performing culinary team.
• Oversee food preparation and ensure that dishes are executed to perfection, meeting or exceeding quality and presentation standards.
• Assist in managing inventory, ordering supplies, and maintaining proper stock levels to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
• Monitor food costs and portion control, implementing strategies to maximize efficiency while minimizing waste.
• Ensure adherence to sanitation, safety, and hygiene standards in the kitchen, following local regulations and best practices.
• Lead by example in maintaining a clean, organized, and well-equipped kitchen environment.
• Collaborate with the front-of-house team to ensure seamless coordination of service, timely delivery of orders, and exceptional guest experiences.
• Provide creative input for special events, seasonal promotions, and menu changes, contributing to the restaurant's culinary innovation.
• Assist in conducting regular performance evaluations for kitchen staff, recognizing achievements and identifying areas for improvement.
• Stay updated with industry trends, culinary techniques, and emerging ingredients, incorporating new knowledge into menu development and kitchen operations.
• Assume responsibility for the kitchen in the absence of the Executive Chef, making informed decisions to maintain high standards of food quality and service.

Qualification & Experience

Education

• Culinary degree or equivalent culinary certification is preferred.

Experience

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef or similar role in a fine dining restaurant or upscale culinary establishment.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Strong passion for culinary arts and a deep appreciation for creating exceptional dishes.
• Creative and innovative mindset, with the ability to contribute to menu development and presentation.
• Leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to manage and inspire a diverse culinary team.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities to handle a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Knowledge of local and international cuisine, ingredients, and cooking techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively lead and collaborate with team members and other departments.
• Adherence to high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.