Sous Chef

VACANCY: Sous Chef – Majete Wildlife Reserve

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. In Malawi, African Parks manages Majete Wildlife Reserve, Liwonde National Park, Mangochi Forest and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.

An opportunity has arisen for the post of Sous Chef tenable at Majete Wildlife Reserve, Chikwawa.

The Sous Chef will report directly to the Head Chef with dotted lines to the Commercial and will work closely with the Tourism team and other departments as required. Based at Majete.

The successful candidate will support the Head Chef in the preparation and presentation of meals for guests at Thawale Lodge, Mwembezi Restaurant, Majete Conference Centre, staff catering and other events held within the reserve. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining high standards of food quality, hygiene, cleanliness and stock control while contributing to an exceptional guest experience and act as Head Chef in his absence.

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 seasonal 6-day menus
• Conduct food tasting 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 spoilage.
• Reduce excess spending by optimizing ingredient use and negotiating better supplier rates.
• Ensure portion control is followed to maintain cost efficiency without compromising quality.
• Calculate all recipe costings

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, plumbing, and structural repairs.

4. Hospitality and Guest Experience

• Train and mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff to improve food service quality.
• 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 and agree on schedule with respective teams being catered for to ensure seamless meal service.
• Develop and execute new dining experiences e.g. bush dinners

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.
• Monitor and enforce safety standards in the kitchens and any high danger environment e.g. Ensure gas is switched off and fire extinguishers are present
• 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.
• Computer literate
• Experience working on a computerised stock management system
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong interest in wildlife conservation.
• Minimum of 5 years of similar experience or as a Sous Chef.
• Ability to work under pressure when multiple evens are happening simultaneously
• Good English skills (written and spoken).
• Good attention to detail and ability to identify problems.
• Ability to adapt and work flexibly in our environment.
• Excellent communication skills particularly with kitchen staff and other departments.
• Strong computer skills, particularly in MS Excel and preferably in Tall Order and MyStock
• Driver’s license would be advantageous

Special Conditions

• The person applying must either have the right to work in Malawi or be a Malawi citizen.

African Parks is an equal opportunity Employer.

Applicants should submit their CVs together with a covering letter clearly demonstrating how their qualifications, skills and experience meet the requirements of the position. At least three traceable referees should be included; however, copies of certificates are not required at this stage.

Should you not hear back from us within two (2) weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.