Head Chef - Lead a High-Volume Kitchen Team

Gracies Bar; Carlow; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Gracie's Bar in Ireland is seeking an experienced Head Chef to take ownership of the kitchen operation in a high-volume, fast-paced hospitality setting. You will lead and develop the team, maintain food quality, manage costs and ensure each service runs smoothly.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong culinary standards and a passion for delivering exceptional food. Flexible for evenings and weekends, with a focus on consistent, top-quality guest experiences.

Qualifications

• Previous Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef experience in a busy hospitality environment.
• Experience managing a high-volume kitchen.
• Strong leadership and people-management skills.
• Passion for quality food and consistent presentation.
• Excellent knowledge of HACCP and kitchen best practices.
• Experience controlling food costs, GP, stock and waste.

Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
• Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team, creating a positive and high-performing environment.
• Deliver consistently high standards of food quality, presentation and service.
• Ensure the kitchen is fully prepared and organised for busy services.
• Manage food preparation, service and kitchen operations efficiently.
• Monitor and control food costs, GP, portion sizes and waste.
• Manage stock levels, ordering and supplier relationships.
• Ensure all food is prepared, stored and handled in line with HACCP and food safety regulations.
• Maintain excellent standards of kitchen cleanliness, hygiene and organisation.
• Recruit, train and develop kitchen team members where required.
• Prepare and manage kitchen rotas to ensure appropriate staffing levels.
• Work closely with the General Manager and management team to achieve operational and financial targets.
• Contribute to menu development, specials and new food ideas.
• Ensure consistency across the menu and maintain recipe and presentation standards.
• Lead from the front during busy services, remaining calm and solution-focused under pressure.
• Ensure the kitchen team delivers an excellent experience for every customer.

Skills

Leadership

People management

High-volume kitchen

Food safety HACCP

Menu development

Cost control

Staff training

Communication

Job description

Gracie's Bar in Ireland is seeking an experienced Head Chef to take ownership of the kitchen operation in a high-volume, fast-paced hospitality setting. You will lead and develop the team, maintain food quality, manage costs and ensure each service runs smoothly.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong culinary standards and a passion for delivering exceptional food. Flexible for evenings and weekends, with a focus on consistent, top-quality guest experiences.