MMK Hotels is a growing Malawian hospitality company with operations in Lilongwe and Mchinji, committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences through quality accommodation, excellent dining, and outstanding customer service. We pride ourselves on professionalism, integrity, teamwork, and excellence in hospitality. As part of our continued growth and commitment to service excellence, we are inviting suitably qualified, motivated, and customer-focused individuals to apply for the role of GROUP HEAD CHEF.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Hospitality
- Closing Date: 2026-08-31
Key Responsibilities
- Leading and managing kitchen operations across the Group, ensuring consistently high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene and service.
- Developing and updating menus, including local and international dishes, while introducing innovative and commercially viable food offerings.
- Supervising, coaching and developing kitchen staff, including Chefs, Cooks and Kitchen Assistants, ensuring effective use of all duties.
- Planning and controlling food production, ensuring appropriate portion sizes, recipe cost and efficient use of ingredients.
- Managing food costs and stock, including menu costing, purchasing requirements, stock control and minimizing food wastage.
- Ensuring full compliance with food safety, occupational health and safety standards and applicable hospitality requirements.
- Maintaining high standards of kitchen cleanliness, equipment care and overall kitchen operations.
- Working closely with the executive management and Food & Beverage team to plan menus, functions, banquets, special events and other culinary requirements.
- Monitoring customer feedback and continuously improving food quality to meet customer satisfaction.
- Supporting the recruitment, training, performance management and discipline of kitchen personnel in accordance with MMK Hotels policies and procedures.
Requirements
- A Diploma or Degree in Culinary Arts, Food Production, Hospitality Management or a related field from a recognised institution.
- At least 5 years of progressive experience in professional kitchen operations, preferably in a hotel, lodge or high-end restaurant environment.
- Demonstrated experience in a senior chef or Head Chef position, with experience managing a kitchen team.
- Strong knowledge of food preparation, menu development, food costing, stock management and kitchen operations.
- Excellent knowledge of food safety, hygiene and sanitation standards.
- Ability to manage kitchen operations efficiently under pressure and during busy periods.
- Strong leadership, communication, organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Creativity and passion for food, with the ability to develop attractive and diverse menus.
- Experience in training and mentoring kitchen staff will be an added advantage.
Salary
Not specified
How to Apply
Apply by email: hr@mmfurnhotels.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Group Head Chef at MMK Hotels in Malawi?
Most employers look for a culinary diploma or certificate from a recognised institution such as the Malawi Institute of Tourism (MIT) or an equivalent hospitality school. Several years of progressive kitchen experience, including supervisory roles, is usually essential. Food safety and hygiene certifications are also highly valued.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Group Head Chef?
You would oversee kitchen operations across the hotel's outlets, plan menus, manage food costs, and ensure consistent quality and hygiene standards. The role also involves supervising and training junior chefs, ordering supplies, and coordinating with management on budgets. Compliance with Malawi Bureau of Standards food safety requirements is typically expected.
How many years of experience do employers in Malawi usually require for this role?
Employers generally expect substantial experience, often gained through senior chef de partie or sous chef positions in hotels or resorts. Experience managing multiple kitchens or outlets strengthens your application for a group-level role. International exposure can be an added advantage but is not always required.
What benefits can I expect as a Head Chef working in Malawi's hospitality sector?
Benefits vary by employer but commonly include paid annual leave, sick leave, and contributions to a pension scheme as required under Malawian labour law. Some hotels provide staff meals, uniforms, accommodation, or medical scheme support. Always confirm the full benefits package during the offer stage.
What career growth paths are available after working as a Group Head Chef?
Progression typically leads to roles such as Executive Chef, Food and Beverage Manager, or broader hotel operations management. With experience, some chefs move into consultancy, culinary training, or open their own catering businesses in Malawi. Building strong management and cost-control skills accelerates advancement.
How should I apply for the Group Head Chef position, and what do employers look for?
Prepare a professional CV highlighting your culinary qualifications, kitchen leadership experience, and any notable menus or events you have managed, then submit it through the employer's stated application channel. Employers often value practical cooking assessments or tastings during interviews. Demonstrating knowledge of local ingredients and Malawian cuisine alongside international dishes can set you apart.