Italian Head Chef

Hyred; Jeddah; On-site; SAR 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing restaurant chain is seeking an experienced Italian Head Chef to lead culinary operations in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The ideal candidate will have a proven background in Italian cuisine and strong leadership skills to manage kitchen teams. Responsibilities include menu development, cost control, and training staff. The position offers full relocation support and other benefits.

Benefits

Full relocation support to Saudi Arabia

Visa support

Accommodation & other benefits

Qualifications

• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in Italian cuisine, with at least 3-5 years as Head Chef or Executive Chef.
• Proven experience managing high-capacity restaurants (70+ covers).
• Fluent in English; Italian language is a bonus.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations.
• Ensure authentic Italian food preparation and high-quality standards.
• Collaborate with management to design innovative menus.
• Oversee inventory and food cost control.

Skills

Italian culinary expertise

Leadership skills

Menu design

Cost control

Kitchen hygiene

Training and management

Job description

Specialty : Italian cuisine

Location : Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (Candidate required to relocate to Jeddah)

Reporting to : CEO

Restaurants Managed : 2 existing Italian restaurants (150160 pax each) + 2 upcoming venues

Role Overview :

Our client, a fast growing Restaurant chain, is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Italian Head Chef to lead the culinary operations across a growing portfolio of Italian restaurants.

The successful candidate will bring authentic Italian culinary expertise, strong leadership in managing kitchen teams, and a proven ability to run high-volume, premium dining concepts. This is a key leadership position that will oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, from menu development and cost control to team training and pre-opening planning for new outlets.

Key Responsibilities :

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations.
• Ensure authentic Italian food preparation and high-quality standards are maintained consistently.
• Collaborate with the CEO and management to design innovative menus rooted in traditional Italian cuisine.
• Oversee inventory, food cost control, supplier coordination, and kitchen hygiene in line with HACCP standards.
• Recruit, train, and manage a diverse team of chefs, commis, and kitchen staff.
• Manage pre-opening tasks for new restaurants including kitchen layout planning, equipment selection, and staff onboarding.
• Monitor customer feedback and work closely with front-of-house to ensure an exceptional dining experience.
• Drive kitchen efficiency, minimise waste, and ensure compliance with local food safety regulations.

Requirements :

Requirements

• Minimum 810 years of experience in Italian cuisine, with at least 35 years as Head Chef or Executive Chef.
• Proven experience managing high-capacity restaurants (70+ covers).
• Hands-on experience in restaurant pre-openings , kitchen design, and team structuring.
• Strong leadership, training, and communication skills.
• Deep understanding of Italian culinary traditionspastas, pizzas, sauces, antipasti, etc.
• Experience working in international, Multi-chain hospitality groups is a plus.
• Fluent in English; Italian language is a bonus.

What We Offer :

• Full relocation support to Saudi Arabia
• Visa support
• Accommodation & other benefits