is assisting a luxury safari lodge in Kenya in sourcing an exceptional culinary leader to launch and lead the kitchen as

This is a rare pre-opening opportunity to shape the entire culinary direction of a high-end safari camp, from building and mentoring a kitchen team to designing refined, ingredient-driven menus that reflect both global inspiration and local influence. The successful candidate will combine creativity with strong operational structure, delivering a world-class dining experience aligned with the lodge’s positioning at the top end of the market.

Working in a remote and iconic safari setting, this role requires a confident leader who can balance innovation with consistency, elevate standards, and create a cohesive, high-performing kitchen culture from the ground up. This opportunity will suit a passionate chef who is ready to create something exceptional in a unique and inspiring environment as Executive Chef.

Lead the full pre-opening setup of the kitchen, including recruitment and team structure
Develop and implement creative, seasonal, and ingredient-led menus
Oversee all food production, ensuring consistency, quality, and presentation standards
Build, train, and mentor a high-performing kitchen team, including Sous Chefs (pastry and
Asian/Indian focus)
Implement kitchen systems, SOPs, hygiene, and food safety standards
Manage food cost, procurement, stock control, and supplier relationships+
Deliver exceptional guest dining experiences aligned with a luxury safari environment
Incorporate fire cooking and local influences into the culinary offering

Proven experience as an Executive Chef within luxury lodges, hotels, or remote hospitality environments
Strong pre-opening experience highly advantageous
High-level culinary skills with a focus on refined, ingredient-driven cuisine
Strong leadership and team development capability
Solid financial acumen including costing, stock control, and budgeting
Experience working in remote or logistically challenging environments
Creative, adaptable, and passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences

$3,500 – $4,000 net per month with expat benefits

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Full live-in position (accommodation and meals provided)
3 months on | 1 month off

➡️ – Although we appreciate all CV’s received, we will only reply to those candidates who have the experience our client requires. Thank you for understanding.

J D Specialized Recruitment

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