GREAT PLAINS
CONSERVING AND EXPANDING NATURAL HABITATS
EXECUTIVE CHEF
* Job Title: Executive Chef
* Function: Operations
* Reports To: Food and Beverage Development Manager and Camp General Manager
* Location: Botswana
PURPOSE OF THE JOB:
The Executive Chef is the custodian of the culinary vision, responsible for delivering an exceptional, immersive dining experience that reflects a deep sense of place, sustainability, and refined luxury. This role transcends traditional kitchen management, positioning the Executive Chef as a storyteller, innovator, and leader who crafts memorable gastronomic journeys rooted in authenticity, seasonality, and cultural connection. The Executive Chef ensures that every culinary touchpoint embodies the ethos of Relais & Châteaux – excellence, individuality, and a celebration of local heritage.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and deliver menus that celebrate regional identity, local produce, and seasonal availability
- Translate the safari experience into cuisine through storytelling, presentation, and ingredient provenance
- Curate bespoke dining moments (bush dinners, interactive experiences, private dining) that elevate guest engagement
- Uphold world-class standards in flavour, technique, and visual excellence
- Act as a visible culinary ambassador, engaging with guests to personalise and enrich their experience
- Anticipate guest preferences and dietary requirements with precision and creativity
- Transform feedback into continuous refinement of the culinary offering
- Collaborate seamlessly with Front of House to deliver fluid, intuitive, and memorable servic
- Inspire, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary brigade grounded in respect, discipline, and pride
- Foster a culture aligned with Relais & Châteaux values: humility, excellence, authenticity, and passion
- Build strong succession pipelines through structured training and coaching
- Lead by example, maintaining composure and excellence in high-pressure, remote environments
- Champion sustainable sourcing, prioritising local farmers, ethical suppliers, and environmentally responsible practices
- Minimise waste through innovative menu planning and disciplined kitchen controls
- Embed a “farm-to-table” philosophy that enhances both guest experience and community impact
- Drive financial performance through effective food cost management, forecasting, and procurement strategies
- Maintain rigorous control over stock, wastage, and portion consistency
- Ensure compliance with hygiene, food safety, and operational standards
- Align kitchen operations with business demands while optimising labour efficiency
- Collaborate with procurement to secure premium-quality ingredients aligned with brand standards
- Ensure best practices in receiving, storage, and inventory control
- Strategically plan staffing structures to support fluctuating occupancy levels
Requirements
- Refined culinary expertise with a strong creative identity
- Advanced leadership and team development capability
- Strong commercial and financial acumen
- Exceptional attention to detail and presentation
- Cultural awareness and ability to operate in remote, diverse environments
- Passion for sustainability and conservation-driven hospitality
- Formal Culinary Arts / Food Production qualification from a recognized culinary institute
- 3-5 years’ experience in an Executive Chef or equivalent role within luxury hospitality
- Proven experience in remote lodge or boutique luxury environments (highly advantageous)
- Demonstrated ability to train, mentor, and build culinary teams
- Strong administrative and computer proficiency
- Resilient, adaptable, and solutions-driven mindset
- Food portfolio supplied
Salary
THE REMUNERATION PACKAGE WILL BE OFFERED ACCORDING TO EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should email a cover letter and updated CV to the below listed email addresses.
The subject heading of the email should be written as: Executive Chef.
To: opportunities@greatplainsconservation.com
The subject heading of the email should be written as: Executive Chef.
To: opportunities@greatplainsconservation.com
THE REMUNERATION PACKAGE WILL BE OFFERED ACCORDING TO EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE.
WE DO NOT ACCEPT HAND DELIVERIES. PLEASE NOTE, DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUMES OF APPLICATIONS ONLY THOSE WHO ARE SHORTLISTED WILL BE CONTACTED.
About the Company
Great Plains Conservation is a leading luxury safari and conservation company with a significant operational presence in Botswana. Established in 2006 by renowned filmmakers and conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert, the company manages premium camps across Botswana's iconic Okavango Delta and Selinda Reserve, among other African destinations. It delivers high-end, immersive wildlife experiences while actively contributing to critical conservation initiatives and community development. Headquartered in Gaborone, Great Plains is recognized globally for its sustainable practices and impactful wildlife protection efforts within the region, solidifying its role as a key player in Botswana's eco-tourism sector.
Luxury, conservation-focused safari experiences across Botswana and Africa.
Website: https://greatplainsconservation.com
Job Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
What essential qualifications and certifications are typically required for an Executive Chef role in Botswana's luxury hospitality sector?
Candidates usually need a diploma or degree in Culinary Arts or Hotel Management, combined with extensive experience in high-end kitchens or luxury lodges. Relevant international certifications in hygiene, food safety, and advanced culinary techniques are highly valued by employers.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of an Executive Chef working for a luxury safari lodge group in Botswana?
Daily tasks include menu development, overseeing kitchen operations, managing food costs and inventory, and ensuring exceptional food quality and presentation for guests. You would also be responsible for staff training, scheduling, and maintaining strict health and safety protocols in often remote settings.
What aspects of local work culture and expectations should an Executive Chef be aware of when working in Botswana's hospitality industry?
The work culture often emphasizes strong interpersonal relationships, respect for hierarchy, and adaptability to local ingredients and preferences. Given the communal nature of lodge living, a strong sense of teamwork and community amongst staff is also crucial.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for an Executive Chef in Botswana's hospitality industry?
Successful Executive Chefs might advance to multi-property culinary director roles within larger hospitality groups or move into broader Food & Beverage management positions. Opportunities for international assignments or consulting within global luxury brands can also arise with strong performance.
What typical benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can an Executive Chef expect in Botswana's luxury hospitality sector?
Benefits commonly include competitive remuneration, on-site accommodation (especially for remote lodge positions), and usually medical aid coverage. Pension contributions and generous leave entitlements are also typical, though these can vary significantly by employer and seniority.
What do employers in Botswana look for in an Executive Chef candidate, and what is the best way to apply for such roles?
Employers seek proven leadership skills, creativity with diverse cuisines, experience in remote operations, and strong financial acumen in managing kitchen budgets. Applications should include a detailed CV highlighting relevant luxury hospitality experience, along with a cover letter expressing your passion for the unique environment of Botswana.