Head Chef

Emirates Park Zoo; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the hospitality sector is seeking a Head Chef to oversee culinary operations within their catering and restaurant divisions. The ideal candidate will lead a skilled kitchen team, develop creative menus, and maintain the highest food safety standards to create exceptional dining experiences. This role demands strong leadership skills and the ability to innovate while managing costs and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, preferably in catering and restaurant settings.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety standards and sanitation.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the kitchen team, ensuring high standards of food quality and service.
• Develop and update menus that align with customer preferences and seasonal ingredients.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team Management

Food Safety Standards

Creativity

Organizational Skills

Education

Culinary degree or relevant certification

Job description

The Catering & Restaurant Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all culinary operations within the catering and restaurant divisions. They lead the kitchen team, develop menus, ensure high-quality food preparation, maintain food safety standards, and manage costs to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

Key Responsibilities :

• Lead and manage the kitchen team, including chefs, sous chefs, and kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of food quality and service.
• Develop, plan, and update menus that align with the brand, customer preferences, and seasonal ingredients.
• Oversee food preparation, presentation, and portion control to meet quality standards.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards in compliance with health regulations.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and stock control to optimize costs and reduce waste.
• Monitor kitchen operations to ensure efficiency, productivity, and consistency.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff to improve skills and uphold standards.
• Collaborate with management on pricing, promotions, and special events.
• Ensure customer satisfaction by maintaining high culinary standards and addressing feedback.
• Prepare regular reports on kitchen performance, costs, and staff management.
• Innovate and stay updated on culinary trends to keep menus fresh and competitive.

Requirements

Qualifications :

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, preferably in catering and restaurant settings.
• Culinary degree or relevant certification.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety standards and sanitation.
• Creativity in menu development and presentation.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Good communication and organizational skills.