Job Description: Executive Chef – “Fine-Casual” Dining Restaurant (Saudi Arabia)

Cutting Edge Recruitment; Jeddah; On-site; SAR 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits a talented Executive Chef to lead a fine-casual dining restaurant in Saudi Arabia. This role is perfect for a culinary visionary who thrives in managing kitchen operations, developing innovative recipes, and inspiring a passionate team. You will have the creative freedom to shape the restaurant's culinary identity while ensuring the highest standards of quality and presentation. Join a vibrant dining scene and make a significant impact on guest experiences while collaborating with a dedicated team. If you are ready to elevate your culinary career, this position offers the perfect blend of challenge and creativity.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Accommodation and relocation assistance

Creative freedom in culinary identity

Opportunity to lead a passionate team

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef in fine-dining or luxury hospitality.
• Strong expertise in recipe development and plating artistry.

Responsibilities

• Oversee kitchen operations ensuring quality and efficiency.
• Innovate menu items and maintain production standards.

Skills

Recipe Development

Production Management

Plating Artistry

Leadership

Communication

Team Building

Culinary Knowledge

Ability to Work Under Pressure

Education

Culinary Degree

Job description

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly talented and creative Executive Chef for a fine-casual dining restaurant in Saudi Arabia. The ideal candidate will excel in managing day-to-day kitchen operations, bring expertise in recipe development, production, and plating artistry, and inspire their team while maintaining the highest culinary standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Kitchen Operations:

• Oversee and manage all kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency, consistency, and adherence to the restaurant’s quality standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant kitchen environment while adhering to Saudi food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and vendor relationships to ensure timely and cost-effective supply of quality ingredients.
• Develop and implement schedules for kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations.

1. Recipe Development:

• Innovate and design new menu items that reflect the restaurant’s vision while considering seasonal ingredients and market trends.
• Continuously refine and enhance existing recipes for improved flavor, presentation, and efficiency.

1. Production and Quality Control:

• Establish and monitor production standards to ensure all dishes meet the restaurant’s quality and portioning guidelines.
• Conduct regular tasting sessions to maintain flavor profiles and consistency.

1. Plating Artistry:

• Develop and implement creative and visually appealing plating techniques to elevate the guest experience.
• Train kitchen staff on plating and presentation standards.

1. Team Leadership and Training:

• Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing kitchen team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Lead by example, inspiring staff with a strong work ethic, passion for culinary arts, and attention to detail.

1. Budget and Cost Management:

• Work closely with the management team to set and achieve financial goals, including food cost, labor cost, and overall profitability.
• Identify and implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality.

1. Guest Experience and Engagement:

• Collaborate with front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
• Interact with guests when appropriate, sharing the inspiration behind dishes and receiving feedback.

1. Cultural and Market Adaptation:

• Develop menu items that resonate with the local market while maintaining an international appeal.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or in a similar leadership role in fine-dining, upscale casual, or luxury hospitality environments.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training.
• Strong expertise in recipe development, production management, and plating artistry.
• A portfolio showcasing creative plating and culinary achievements.
• In-depth knowledge of international and regional cuisines.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Fluent in English; Arabic is a plus.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Accommodation and relocation assistance.
• Opportunity to lead a passionate team in a growing fine-casual dining brand.
• Creative freedom to shape the restaurant’s culinary identity.
• A vibrant and diverse work environment in Saudi Arabia’s dynamic dining scene.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter, and a portfolio of your culinary and plating work. We look forward to discovering a visionary chef to lead our kitchen and create unforgettable dining experiences.