Salary : AED 22,000 per month (all inclusive)
Concept : Upmarket Mediterranean Brand
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead the culinary operations of our upmarket Mediterranean restaurant in Dubai. The ideal candidate will embody a deep commitment to excellence, a flair for Mediterranean cuisine, and strong leadership skills. This role is central to upholding our brand’s reputation for quality, consistency, and innovation in a fast-paced, high-end dining environment.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Operations & Service Excellence
- Lead and oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring smooth service and adherence to brand standards.
- Manage kitchen staff, assign duties, supervise sections, and coordinate operations for consistency and efficiency.
- Maintain in-depth knowledge of all recipes, ensuring accurate preparation and plating across the kitchen.
- Take charge of the pass during service, ensuring clear communication, timely execution, and quality control of every dish.
- Ensure all stations are fully prepped, stocked, and equipped with the necessary tools ahead of service.
- Conduct and participate in daily kitchen and restaurant briefings, fostering alignment and team motivation.
Quality Assurance, Health & Safety
- Oversee HACCP and food safety compliance, ensuring proper food storage, handling, temperature control, and sanitation.
- Verify all supplier deliveries meet quality and brand specifications before acceptance.
- Implement and monitor strict cleaning schedules, preventive maintenance routines, and kitchen inspections.
- Ensure all team members comply with health, safety, and hygiene standards at all times.
Cost Control & Inventory Management
- Monitor food sales and production to maintain accurate par levels and minimize waste.
- Oversee stock rotation and inventory control to support profitability and reduce spoilage.
- Collaborate with the General Manager to manage food costs and align spending with the budget.
- Maintain detailed records of kitchen expenses, inventory usage, and supplier invoices.
- Foster a positive, respectful kitchen culture aligned with company values and brand ethos.
- Train, mentor, and develop culinary staff across all sections; support a buddy / mentorship program for new hires.
- Conduct performance reviews, maintain performance logs, and implement development plans where needed.
- Provide constructive feedback, enforce disciplinary actions when necessary, and celebrate team achievements.
- Promote personal and team growth through continuous learning and regular training initiatives.
- Work in close partnership with FOH leadership to ensure seamless service and exceptional guest experiences.
- Respond to guest feedback and complaints with professionalism and a focus on resolution.
- Collaborate with the Culinary Director and General Manager on menu development, kitchen strategy, and new culinary projects.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Minimum 5 years of experience in a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef role within upmarket or fine dining environments.
- Strong foundation in Mediterranean cuisine, with a passion for fresh, seasonal, and high-quality ingredients.
- Expert knowledge of kitchen operations, health and safety standards, and team management.
- Proven ability to lead large teams, train staff, and maintain high morale under pressure.
- Excellent communication, time management, and organisational skills.
- Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of additional languages is a plus.
- UAE experience and HACCP certification preferred.
What We Offer :
- Competitive tax-free salary of AED 22,000 per month (all inclusive).
- Live out contract.
- Opportunity to lead a high profile kitchen within a growing Mediterranean brand.
- Supportive and dynamic work environment committed to excellence.
- Ongoing professional development and growth opportunities.
- Staff meals, uniforms, and annual leave benefits in line with UAE labor law.
Job Type : Full-time
Experience :
- Head Chef / Senior Sous Chef : 5 years (Required)
- Mediterranean cuisine : 7 years (Required)