Zanele Nzuza

Results-driven chef with over 5 years of experience managing kitchen operations, leading culinary teams, and delivering consistently high-quality dishes in fast-paced, high-volume hospitality environments. Strong background in menu development, stock control, food safety, and staff supervision across fine dining, grill, seafood, and South African cuisine. Seeking to bring this experience to a shipboard galley team, with a strong work ethic, adaptability, and commitment to hygiene and service excellence at sea.

Chef (Sous Chef) - Lira Hotel (5-Star)

(2026-06)

• Oversee food quality and timing at the pass before service
• Train and support kitchen staff during daily operations
• Conduct stock counts and stock takes to maintain accurate inventory
• Serve as grill station master, responsible for grill preparation and presentation

Senior Chef - The Vuez

(2025-12 - 2026-05)

• Oversaw daily kitchen operations across multiple stations
• Supervised and coordinated kitchen staff to ensure smooth service
• Ensured high standards of food quality and presentation
• Managed stock and inventory levels
• Trained and mentored junior kitchen staff

Chef - Iziko Lounge

(2025-04 - 2025-12)

• Coordinated food preparation and plating for daily service
• Maintained a clean and organized workstation in line with hygiene standards
• Assisted in managing kitchen operations and staff
• Assisted in maintaining inventory and ordering supplies
• Maintained high levels of food quality and presentation
• Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure efficient service

Chef - Function Foods

(2024-01 - 2025-12)

• Coordinated food presentation and plating for events and service
• Prepared and cooked dishes to high, consistent standards
• Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure efficient service
• Assisted with stock receiving, storage handling, and tracking
• Coordinated with kitchen staff on recipe reformulation

Head Chef - Fufu's Creations

(2020-01 - 2023-12)

• Ensured high levels of hygiene and food safety standards
• Managed full kitchen operations and staff
• Trained and mentored junior kitchen staff
• Developed and implemented menus and recipes

Chef and Baking Certificate - Education Hope for the Future (2012)

Grade 12 - Sinqobile High School