Executive Chef salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Executive Chef in South Africa is approximately 171,109 ZAR (8,593 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Executive Chef do?

An executive chef is a highly skilled and experienced professional responsible for overseeing all aspects of the kitchen operations in a restaurant or hotel. They are in charge of creating and implementing menus, ensuring food quality and presentation, managing kitchen staff, and maintaining inventory and budget control. Executive chefs also collaborate with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients and develop relationships with local farmers and producers. This occupation requires strong leadership and organizational skills, as well as creativity and a passion for culinary arts. Executive chefs must have a deep understanding of various cooking techniques and styles, as well as knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations. They must be able to work under pressure and manage a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.

Skills: executive chef, culinary arts, kitchen management, menu planning, food safety, leadership
Job industry: Hospitality

How much does Executive Chef make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Executive Chef a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Executive Chef is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Executive Chef?

High salary for Executive Chef would be somewhere between 188,220 ZAR and 248,108 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Executive Chef in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 171,109 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 14,259 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 3,291 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 82 ZAR per hour
By working as Executive Chef a person can save up to 445 USD per month or 5,339 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Executive Chef

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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