Executive Chef

With more than 34400 students, and approximately 1700 members of staff, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) is a leading university of technology proudly located in the beautiful cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg, along the warm east coast of South Africa. Founded in April 2002 through the historic merger of the former ML Sultan Technikon and Technikon Natal, DUT has evolved into a modern, metropolitan, multi-campus university with roots tracing back to 1907.

Today, DUT is recognised nationally and internationally for its excellence in teaching and learning, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and engagement. A proud member of the International Association of Universities, DUT continues to expand its influence across South Africa and the world. In the 2025 Webometrics Rankings, DUT was ranked among the Top 6% of all universities and colleges worldwide, reflecting its academic excellence, research impact and strong global visibility.

DUT’s Philosophy of Education, “Our creativity and innovation shapes adaptive graduates who transform society” reflects the institution’s deep commitment to meaningful impact for societal transformation. Guided by its inspirational and aspirational ENVISION2030 strategy, which is rooted in DUT’s DNA of being ‘people-centred and engaged’ and ‘innovative and entrepreneurial’ and underpinned by its bespoke Living Values Framework, DUT focuses on ‘contributing to the improving lives and livelihoods’.

The University comprises six diverse Faculties:

1. Accounting and Informatics
2. Applied Sciences

• Arts & Design

1. Engineering and the Built Environment
2. Health Sciences
3. Management Sciences

DUT also includes a Business School and the award-winning Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT), amongst other research centres and institutes, reinforcing its role as a hub for knowledge, innovation and societal impact. DUT is deeply engaged with its community and regional ecosystem, while remaining globally connected and relevant.

At DUT, we believe in nurturing talent and empowering people to make a real difference. If you are passionate about contributing to education, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and engagement, DUT offers the ideal environment - Creative. Distinctive. Impactful.

DEPARTMENT OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT: HOTEL SCHOOL (RITSON CAMPUS)
EXECUTIVE CHEF: (REF:1654)

Job Purpose

Under the direction of the Director of the Hotel School, the Executive Chef plays a pivotal role in the hotel school by training students in a simulated kitchen environment whilst ensuring that the food served to restaurant patrons is of high quality. The incumbent is also responsible for the overall quality of food of the Hotel School Restaurant by developing innovative and creative menus that meet the needs of restaurant patrons.

Job Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• A three-year Diploma (NQF level 6) in Professional Cookery/Culinary Arts/Hospitality or any equivalent hospitality-related qualification
• A minimum of five (5) years industry-related experience as a Chef in a high-volume environment is required, of which three (3) years should have been as Head Chef
• Ability to balance volume service (buffets, platters) with refined à la carte finesse.

• Hands-on experience with various kitchen equipment (e.g. grillers and pasta makers)
• Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques, baking and pastry techniques and recipes
• Familiarity with sanitation regulations
• Experience in A la Carte service an added advantage.

Recommended:

• Expertise in designing and preparing A la Carte menus
• Familiarity with halal gourmet
• At least 1-2 years experience in a fine dining establishment.
• Good understanding of mentoring and training of students.
• Strong leadership and motivating skills.

Key Performance Areas/Principal Accountabilities

• Menu Planning & Development – Plan and execute varied menus—from interactive buffets to fine-dining à la carte, ensuring variety, innovation, and cost control.
• Food Preparation & Quality Control – Maintain consistency, taste, and presentation of dishes.
• Kitchen Management – Supervise the planning, preparation, and presentation of all meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, outdoor meals, and special events and conferencing.
• Inventory & Cost Control – Monitor food costs, inventory levels, and kitchen expenses to ensure efficient operations and budget compliance.
• Student Training & Development – Train, mentor, and supervise students whilst enforcing student discipline on an on-going basis, and staff discipline in the kitchen.
• Compliance & Safety – Ensure health, safety, and HACCP hygiene practices are followed.
• Supplier & Inventory Management – Source ingredients, negotiate with vendors, and maintain stock levels.
• Budgeting- Assist the Director of the Hotel School to prepare restaurant budgets.
• Student Assessment - Planning and execution of practical assessments where applicable.
• Special Events- Drive creativity for themed experiences including Food and Wine Tasting events.
• Other duties - Perform any other duties as required by demands in business or requests by the Director of the Hotel School, especially when growth and expansion may increase performance requirements

Competencies:

• The ability to build a successful team
• Delegate responsibility to students
• Chef and Food and Beverage related competency skills
• Conflict management and mentoring ability
• Continuous learning inclination
• Learner/client orientation
• Good verbal and written communication skills in English
• Excellent organizational and planning skills
• Presentation skills
• Adaptability
• Training and coaching skills
• Quality orientation and good work standards
• Computer skills – MS Outlook, Word, Excel, Internet etc.
• Self-disciplined, punctual and respectful.
• Reliable, ethical, confidential, motivated, sales orientated, honest and passionate.
• Creative flair and passion for food and cooking.

Shortlisted candidates for the Executive Chef position will be invited for a Cook-Off Interview

The contract will be valid for a period of five (5) years and will be subject to performance evaluation.

Contact Person: Miss MN Mthembu, Tel 031 373 2650 or [email protected]

Please complete an official application for employment form and send a detailed CV and a covering letter with the exact name of the post you are applying for to: [email protected].

Application form obtainable from our website www.dut.ac.za Communication will be entered into with short-listed candidates only.

Only applications made on our application for employment form would be considered.

CLOSING DATE: 06 June 2026

“While DUT strives for equal opportunities, preference will be in terms of the University’s equity policy”

“The University reserves the right not to appoint