Website Planet Lodges & Lairs Camps
Planet Lodges & Lairs Camps
JOB ADVERT: HEAD CHEF
Planet Lodges & Lairs Collection
Location: Serengeti / Tarangire, Tanzania
Key Areas of Responsibility
Kitchen Operations
- Oversee all kitchen activities and food preparation
- Manage daily kitchen workflow and service coordination
- Ensure timely preparation and delivery of meals
Food Quality & Menu Development
- Ensure consistent quality, presentation, and taste of all dishes
- Design creative and seasonal menus aligned with the lodge’s brand
- Incorporate local ingredients while maintaining international standards
- Develop special menus for events, groups, and dietary needs
- Continuously improve menu offerings based on guest feedback
Cost Control & Procurement
- Monitor food cost percentages and manage kitchen budget
- Control portion sizes and minimize waste
- Work closely with procurement on supplier selection
- Conduct regular stock inventory and cost analysis
Team Leadership & Staff Management
- Recruit, train, and supervise kitchen staff
- Schedule shifts and manage staff performance
- Mentor junior chefs and develop culinary skills
- Promote teamwork and a positive kitchen culture
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure strict compliance with food safety regulations
- Maintain cleanliness and sanitation in all kitchen areas
- Ensure proper food storage and temperature control
- Conduct regular kitchen inspections
Guest Experience
- Ensure food quality meets guest expectations
- Manage special dietary requirements
- Handle food-related guest feedback or complaints
- Collaborate with front-of-house teams to enhance dining experiences
Inventory & Operations Efficiency
- Manage kitchen inventory levels
- Coordinate with suppliers to ensure quality ingredients
- Monitor stock usage and prevent shortages
- Approve food purchases within budget guidelines
- Implement efficient kitchen workflows
- Ensure proper equipment use and maintenance
- Optimize kitchen productivity during peak service
Required Qualifications
- Must be physically and mentally prepared to live and work in remote wilderness areas (Serengeti/Tarangire) for long rotations
- Minimum 5–8 years’ experience in a similar role within a luxury safari camp or high-end boutique lodge
- Proven ability to manage kitchen stores and bin cards with minimal supervision
- Proficiency in international cuisines
Key Competences
- Creativity and attention to detail
- Time management
- Team collaboration
- Adaptability
Technical Skills
- Strong cooking techniques
- Knowledge of food safety standards
- Menu planning skills
- Ingredient preparation and plating
How to Apply
- Submit CV and Cover Letter outlining your experience
- Email: careers@planet-lodges.com
Deadline: 23 April 2026
Note
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Contact Address
Planet Lodges & Spa
Moshono Village, Plot #2271
Arusha, Tanzania
To apply for this job email your details to careers@planet-lodges.com