Head Chef

The Head Chef is responsible for the overall management and smooth operation of the kitchen. The role involves leading the culinary team, maintaining high standards of food quality and presentation, controlling food costs, ensuring food safety and hygiene, and delivering an excellent dining experience in accordance with UAE regulations and the establishment's standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and service.
• Create, develop, and update menus according to the restaurant's concept, customer preferences, and seasonal availability.
• Ensure consistent food quality, taste, presentation, and portion control.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and motivate chefs and kitchen staff.
• Prepare staff schedules and allocate duties efficiently.
• Monitor food costs, labor costs, portion sizes, and wastage.
• Manage food purchasing, inventory, storage, and stock rotation.
• Coordinate with suppliers to maintain quality and ensure timely deliveries.
• Ensure compliance with UAE food safety, hygiene, sanitation, and health regulations.
• Maintain proper HACCP and food-safety procedures where applicable.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and ensure cleanliness of all work areas and equipment.
• Ensure correct storage temperatures and proper handling of food.
• Monitor kitchen equipment and arrange maintenance or repairs when required.
• Coordinate closely with restaurant management and front-of-house teams during service.
• Handle customer feedback and resolve food-quality issues professionally.
• Maintain accurate records relating to stock, wastage, food costs, and kitchen operations.
• Develop new dishes and improve existing recipes to maintain the restaurant's competitiveness.
• Ensure all employees follow company policies, health and safety procedures, and UAE labor requirements.

Desired Candidate Profile

• Diploma or degree in Culinary Arts, Hotel Management, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 5-8 years of professional kitchen experience , with relevant experience as a Head Chef.
• Experience in restaurants, hotels, resorts, catering, or fine-dining establishments.
• Strong knowledge of international cuisine and modern culinary techniques.
• Good knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards applicable in the UAE.
• Experience with menu planning, recipe costing, purchasing, and inventory management.
• Strong leadership and team-management abilities.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility to work shifts, weekends, public holidays, and extended hours when required.
• GCC experience is mandatory.