As the Pastry Sous Chef, you will play a pivotal role in leading the hotel's pastry kitchen operations. Working closely with the Executive Sous Chef, you will oversee the creation and execution of all pastry items for à la carte menus, buffets, banquets, high tea, in-room dining, and special events. Your leadership will ensure that all pastries and desserts meet the highest standards of quality, consistency, and presentation.
Job Responsibilities
Daily Kitchen Operations
- Lead the day-to-day production of all pastry items for buffet service, à la carte dining, banquets, in-room dining, and VIP amenities.
- Ensure readiness and timeliness of all pastry components ahead of service periods.
- Support service during peak hours and manage last-minute special requests efficiently.
Menu Innovation & Development
- Assist in designing new dessert concepts, tasting menus, and themed displays for seasons, promotions, and festivals.
- Maintain a recipe database and ensure portioning and plating standards are followed.
- Incorporate modern techniques (e.g., sous-vide pastry components, molecular garnishes) as appropriate.
Banquet & Event Support
- Coordinate with Banquet Chefs and event planners to deliver customized dessert menus for weddings, conferences, and themed events.
- Manage high-volume production for large-scale functions while maintaining quality.
- Prepare dessert displays, centerpieces, and showpieces as per event briefs.
Inventory, Costing & Control
- Monitor ingredient levels, expiry dates, and product quality during receiving and storage.
- Implement FIFO and proper storage practices in fridges and dry goods areas.
- Support cost control targets through precise portioning, creative reuse of trims, and waste minimization.
Hygiene, Safety, and Maintenance
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of all pastry production areas.
- Ensure all food is stored and handled in compliance with food safety standards and HACCP protocols.
- Report and follow up on equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs.
Collaboration & Communication
- Coordinate with other kitchen sections to ensure smooth food production and service timing.
- Work with the purchasing team to source new pastry ingredients and supplies.
- Communicate with service staff regarding allergen information and dessert presentation notes.
Administrative Support
- Maintain accurate documentation for production logs, wastage reports, and hygiene checklists.
- Participate in monthly kitchen meetings and briefings with culinary leadership.
Responsible Business & Sustainability
- Promote responsible sourcing by selecting local, fair-trade, and eco-labeled products where available.
- Reduce single-use plastics and packaging in the pastry kitchen.
- Participate in hotel sustainability audits, campaigns, and zero-waste initiatives.
- Support hotel CSR programs, such as skills training for underprivileged communities or pastry workshops for outreach.