Head Chef

Olala!; Cascais; On-site; EUR 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality group in Lisbon is seeking an innovative Head Chef to lead culinary operations focusing on Mediterranean cuisine. The ideal candidate will oversee menu development, staff training, and daily operations while ensuring exceptional guest experiences and maintaining sustainability practices. Strong leadership and culinary expertise are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in advanced concept-driven restaurants.
• Expertise in Mediterranean cuisine and world culinary techniques is a must.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with F&B management to create seasonal Mediterranean menu.
• Recruit, train, and develop kitchen staff.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation and quality control.

Skills

Mediterranean cuisine expertise

Leadership skills

Attention to detail

Budget cost control

Sustainability practices

Job description

Sr Talent Acquisition Specialist @ Olala!

About Olala!

Olala! is an international hospitality and real estate group, developing, owning, and operating hotels, vacation rentals, and food & beverage concepts worldwide.Since 1996, we have built a presence in 17 cities worldwide, combining global expertise with local insight. Our mission is to deliver smart, technology-driven, and design-forward accommodations that meet the needs of today’s traveler while upholding the highest standards of service.

Your role

We are seeking an innovative and experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team and oversee all aspects of culinary operations. The ideal candidate will be a culinary visionary with a passion for Mediterranean cuisine, capable of balancing creativity with operational excellence. This role requires a hands‑on leader who can create and mentor, drive consistency, and ensure exceptional guest experiences.

Your Journey

• Menu Development and Execution: Collaborate with the F&B management team to create a seasonal menu that aligns with the restaurant’s Mediterranean concept.
• Develop signature dishes that reflect the restaurant’s identity and culinary philosophy.
• Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, and portioning.
• Leadership and Team Management: Recruit, train, and develop kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.
• Lead by example to maintain high standards of professionalism, teamwork, and accountability.
• Monitor team performance and provide feedback and coaching.
• Operational Excellence: Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, inventory management, and quality control.
• Develop and implement kitchen SOPs, safety protocols, and hygiene standards.
• Manage food costs, waste, and stock levels to achieve financial targets.
• Sustainability and Local Sourcing: Partner with local farmers, suppliers, and artisans to source high‑quality, sustainable ingredients.
• Integrate eco‑friendly practices in kitchen operations and service delivery.
• Guest Experience: Ensure culinary offerings meet and exceed guest expectations.
• Work with the FOH team to accommodate guest feedback, special requests, and dietary requirements.

What do you bring to your trip

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in advanced concept‑driven restaurants.
• Expertise in Mediterranean cuisine and world culinary techniques is a must.
• Strong leadership, team‑building, and communication skills.
• Hands‑on approach with attention to detail and a focus on quality.
• Experience in budget cost control, and inventory systems.
• Familiarity with sustainability practices and local sourcing.
• Fluency in English; Portuguese is a plus.

Diversity and Sustainability

At Olala! we take pride in cultivating a vibrant and inclusive work environment that celebrates individuality and diversity. We believe that these are invaluable assets that fuel innovation, foster creativity, and drive our overall success.

Additionally, We believe in taking action towards curving the impact that our company has on its environment. This includes implementing energy‑efficient practices and engaging in community projects that promote cultural preservation among other actions.

We look forward to receiving your application!

For more information about Olala! visit www.olalahomes.com and to keep up to date with Olala! news, follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram!

Seniority level Mid‑Senior level

Employment type Full‑time

Job function Other

Industries Hotels and Motels, Real Estate and Equipment Rental Services, and Hospitality