Head Chef

Aramark; Galway; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Aramark Ireland in Galway seeks an experienced Head Chef to lead culinary operations, oversee food preparation, and drive exceptional dining experiences. You will manage day-to-day kitchen activities, mentor staff, and ensure top quality, safety, and service standards.

Responsibilities include menu development reflecting contemporary trends, cost-aware budgeting, allergen controls, and maintaining rigorous cleanliness.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading senior catering roles in fast-paced environments.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and health & safety compliance.
• Excellent leadership and people-management abilities with a track record of team development.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee day-to-day kitchen operations and staff.
• Plan, develop, and execute diverse menus reflecting contemporary trends.
• Oversee food safety, allergen management, and health & safety compliance across all kitchen operations.
• Manage stock, supplier relations, and budget to optimise cost-efficiency.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation, and presentation.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Food safety

Budget management

Team development

Allergen management

Communication

Job description

At Aramark we empower our people to create experiences that matter. We share a passion for hospitality, it's at the foundation of everything we do. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing, a role at Aramark will help you reach your full potential.

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head Chef to lead our culinary operations in Galway, Ireland. This is an exciting opportunity to take charge of a dynamic kitchen environment, where you will combine your passion for exceptional food with strong leadership capabilities. You will oversee all aspects of food preparation, kitchen management, and team development, whilst maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. The successful candidate will be innovative, detail-oriented, and committed to delivering outstanding culinary experiences. - Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring efficient workflow and consistent food quality

• Plan, develop, and execute diverse menus that reflect contemporary culinary trends whilst accommodating dietary requirements and preferences - Prepare and cook high-quality dishes, maintaining exceptional presentation and flavour standards - Oversee food safety, allergen management, and health & safety compliance across all kitchen operations
• Manage kitchen compliance documentation, due diligence records, and regulatory requirements with meticulous attention to detail - Supervise, train, and motivate kitchen team members, fostering a collaborative and supportive working environment - Manage stock control, supplier relationships, ordering, and inventory rotation to optimise efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Maintain rigorous standards of cleanliness, organisation, and kitchen hygiene at all times - Monitor and control food production budgets, ensuring cost efficiency without compromising quality - Collaborate with management to continuously improve food service delivery and enhance customer satisfaction - Adapt flexibly to changing demands whilst maintaining organisational excellence and service standards

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or equivalent senior catering role - Comprehensive knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and diverse dietary requirements - Sound understanding of health & safety legislation and best practice within food service environments
• Excellent leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire and develop team members - Demonstrated experience managing kitchen compliance systems and due diligence documentation - Strong organisational and communication skills with meticulous attention to detail - Proficiency in menu planning, food costing, and budget management - Expertise in contemporary and traditional culinary techniques and cuisine styles
• Experience with kitchen equipment operation and food preparation methodologies - Proven ability to work effectively and remain resilient in fast-paced, demanding catering environments - Passion for producing high-quality food and delivering exceptional customer service - Desirable knowledge of Irish culinary traditions and local ingredient sourcing - Desirable experience with kitchen management systems and food service technology

Additional Information

About Aramark
Aramark Ireland is a leader in food, facilities, and workplace services, supporting clients across healthcare, education, business, and the public sector. With over 40 years in Ireland and more than 8,000 colleagues across Ireland and Northern Ireland, we are committed to service excellence, innovation, sustainability, and creating meaningful experiences for our clients, colleagues, and communities.

Aramark is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all candidates.