The Protea Hotels by Marriott, South Africa’s leading hospitality brand, is offering aspiring chefs a unique opportunity to launch their careers through the Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee Program. Designed for South African youth, this program provides foundational experience in the hospitality and culinary industries, with the potential to transition into a three-year structured development program.
About the Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee Program
The Accelerate program is a three-year initiative aimed at equipping young South Africans with practical and theoretical knowledge to thrive in the hospitality sector. The journey begins with a one-year Orientation Trainee phase, where participants gain hands-on experience in hotel or kitchen operations. This initial phase helps candidates determine their suitability for a long-term career in hospitality.
For those who successfully complete the orientation and meet the requirements for the three-year program, the benefits are significant. Participants rotate through various hotels within the Marriott group across South Africa, gaining diverse exposure to different locations, hotel types, and managerial styles. The program covers theoretical study at partner culinary schools, complemented by on-the-job learning in real-world environments.
Program Highlights
During the Orientation Year, chef trainees work in all sections of a hotel kitchen, including cold food preparation, hot food stations, and other areas essential to hotel culinary operations. Participants will:
- Learn practical skills in food preparation.
- Understand kitchen operations.
- Develop interpersonal and customer service skills by interacting with guests.
- Experience the day-to-day realities of the hospitality industry.
Upon entering the three-year phase, the focus expands:
- Year 1: Cold food preparation and related kitchen functions.
- Year 2: Hot food preparation.
- Year 3: Comprehensive training across all food preparation functions and management operations.
Candidate Requirements
Applicants for the Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee Program must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen by birth.
- Be aged 18–22 years (applicants must not turn older than 22 in the application year).
- Hold a Matric (Grade 12) certificate or an equivalent NQF/NCV Level 4 qualification, with all subjects preferably passed at 50% or higher.
- Have no post-Matric qualifications to ensure the program is targeted at entry-level candidates.
Candidates must also submit:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A cover letter explaining their motivation for applying.
- A certified copy of their Matric certificate or, if still in Matric, a September progress report.
Why Join?
Participants in the Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee Program enjoy:
- A professional working environment within the Marriott International group.
- Guidance and coaching from seasoned professionals in the hospitality industry.
- Opportunities to rotate across various hotels for broader exposure.
- Personal development through in-house and external training programs.
- Access to Marriott’s “Take Care” wellness initiatives, including health-focused activities.
Core Competencies
Successful candidates should possess:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Team spirit and the ability to work independently.
- Punctuality and a strong sense of organization.
- Passion for the hospitality industry and a proactive attitude toward learning.
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Post-Graduation Benefits
Graduates of the Accelerate program are required to serve one year of employment with Marriott International. The company also assists in securing permanent employment after this commitment, ensuring participants have a solid start to their professional journey.
How to apply
Protea Hotels by Marriott is committed to diversity and inclusivity, ensuring all qualified applicants are considered. Interested individuals can apply online by submitting the required documentation, including their Matric certificate and CV.
About Protea Hotels by Marriott
With over 60 properties across South Africa, Zambia, Nigeria, Namibia, Tanzania, and Uganda, Protea Hotels by Marriott is renowned for offering personalized service and unique guest experiences. As part of Marriott International, the world’s largest hospitality company, Protea Hotels provide an excellent platform for career growth in the travel and hospitality industries.
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Protea Hotels by Marriott invites young, motivated individuals to apply for the Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee Program and take the first step toward a rewarding career in the hospitality sector. With a focus on nurturing talent and fostering professional growth, the program provides a unique blend of practical experience, academic learning, and personal development.
Start your journey today and be part of South Africa’s coolest hotel brand!