Executive Chef

Job Description

We are looking for an Executive Chef to join us at the cutting-edge facility, where culinary innovation meets exceptional service and hospitality. This is a unique opportunity to lead and inspire a dynamic team in a brand-new, state-of-the-art location. You will oversee the culinary operations of our KOFISI Kaskazi public restaurant, exclusive members-only lounges, café, corporate and social events, meetings, conferences, and room service.

Key Responsibilities

The Executive Chef will:

• Develop and execute innovative menus that cater to diverse tastes, ensuring exceptional quality and presentation across all dining areas, leading with a customer-centric approach
• Recruit, train, and lead a team of culinary professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and creativity.
• Manage day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, and maintain professionalism, discipline and calm demeanor during peak hours.
• Collaborate with Events Team to design bespoke menus and culinary experiences for meetings, conferences, and special events, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
• Liaise with other F&B team managers and centre-based managers with the ultimate shared goal of the best Member experience
• Enhance Member satisfaction by maintaining a high level of service and hospitality, including responding to feedback to continuously improve offerings.
• Demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, especially under pressure
• Monitor budgets, control food costs, and optimize resources to achieve financial targets while maintaining quality.
• Contribute to the company’s sustainability practices

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Culinary Arts from a recognized institution.
• Advanced training or certification in Food Safety & Hygiene (e.g. HACCP certification).
• Additional certifications in kitchen management, nutrition, or specialized cuisine are an added advantage.
• Minimum 10 years of professional culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a senior/executive chef role.
• Proven experience in a high-volume, high-end restaurant or hotel kitchen, serving at least 100 covers per service.
• Experience in managing large-scale catering or events for 200 – 300+ guests.
• Demonstrated expertise in menu development, including à la carte, buffet, and banquet menus.
• Experience working with international and local cuisines.
• Previous leadership of a kitchen team of 15+ staff, including sous chefs, CDPs, commis, and stewards.
• World-class culinary skills

Core Competencies & Skills

o    Expertise in a wide range of cooking techniques, including modern plating and classic methods.

o    Skilled in sourcing and working with fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients.

o    Innovative approach to food trends and customer preferences.

o    Ability to create and adapt recipes for both intimate and large-scale dining.

o    Top-notch leadership and team development.

o    Strong leadership and mentorship abilities; capable of building and inspiring a professional kitchen team.

o    Experience with staff training and development.

o    Excellent time management and organizational skills in a fast-paced environment.

o    Proficient in creating and enforcing kitchen SOPs, inventory control, and waste reduction.

o    Excellent financial and operational oversight

o    Budgeting and cost control acumen (food cost, labour cost, yield management).

o    Proficient in stock management, supplier negotiations, and ordering processes.

o    Ability to analyse sales and food cost reports and adjust operations accordingly

o    Familiarity with digital POS/kitchen management systems.

o     Flawless Event and Banquet Execution

o    Experience with planning and executing events, banquets and special functions

o    Demonstrated experience working with front-of-house and event planners to create memorable dining experiences for large groups.

o    Competence in setting up temporary or mobile kitchens when needed for off-site catering