Head Chef/ Sous Chef

Hawthorn Bay Limited; Hong Kong; On-site; HKD 335,000 - 614,000; Full time

Job summary

Hawthorn Bay Limited is seeking an experienced Head Chef/Sous Chef to lead our kitchen operations in Hong Kong. You will oversee food preparation, mentor junior staff and maintain top quality across all dishes while upholding our culinary standards.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, menu innovation, and rigorous food-safety compliance, with a focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences in a fast-paced hospitality setting.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional culinary experience in a busy kitchen.
• 2+ years in a supervisory or head chef role.
• Advanced culinary skills across techniques and cuisines.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and health code compliance.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
• Experience with menu development and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee kitchen operations, ensuring efficient workflow and timely service.
• Prepare, cook and present dishes to high standards per recipes and plating specs.
• Manage food costs and inventory, implement portion control and waste reduction.
• Train, supervise and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring safety standards.
• Develop new menu items consistent with the restaurant's culinary philosophy.
• Maintain health and safety standards per local regulations.
• Liaise with front‑of‑house to ensure seamless service and accommodate dietary requests.
• Manage supplier relationships and ensure quality ingredients are delivered on time.
• Assist in recruitment and performance management of kitchen personnel.

Skills

Leadership

Time management

Menu development

Budgeting & costs

Communication

Food safety

Education

Culinary qualifications

Job description

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Head Chef/Sous Chef to join our culinary team. In this pivotal role, you will lead our kitchen operations, oversee food preparation standards, and mentor junior culinary staff to deliver exceptional dining experiences to our guests. This position is fundamental to maintaining our reputation for culinary excellence and ensuring consistent quality across all dishes served at our establishment.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring efficient workflow and timely service delivery
• Prepare, cook and present dishes to the highest standards, adhering to established recipes and plating specifications
• Manage food costs and inventory, implementing portion control and waste reduction strategies
• Train, supervise and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene standards
• Develop and create new menu items, whilst maintaining consistency with the restaurant's culinary philosophy
• Maintain health and safety standards in accordance with local food safety regulations
• Monitor food quality, temperature and presentation to guarantee guest satisfaction
• Liaise with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and address any dietary requirements or special requests
• Manage supplier relationships and ensure quality ingredients are sourced and delivered on time
• Assist in recruitment and performance management of kitchen personnel

What we're looking for

• Minimum 5+ years of professional culinary experience in a busy kitchen environment, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or head chef role
• Advanced culinary skills with proficiency in various cooking techniques and cuisines
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and health code compliance
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with the capacity to motivate and develop staff
• Exceptional organisational and time management skills, particularly during peak service periods
• Creativity and innovation in menu development and food presentation
• Comprehensive understanding of food costs, budgeting and financial management within a kitchen
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with all departments
• Relevant culinary qualifications or certifications are advantageous
• Experience working in Hong Kong's hospitality sector is highly desirable

What we offer

We are committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment where culinary talent can thrive. We offer competitive remuneration commensurate with experience, opportunities for professional development and career progression within our hospitality group. Our team enjoys staff meals, uniforms provided, and a positive workplace culture that values creativity and innovation. We believe in investing in our people and providing opportunities to enhance your culinary skills through training and mentorship. Work-life balance is important to us, and we aim to create schedules that support the wellbeing of our team members.