Head chef (Central Kitchen)

Description

We are in search of a highly accomplished and imaginative Head Chef to take the helm of our central kitchen operations. In this pivotal role, you will spearhead all aspects of food production for our diverse catering events, ensuring unparalleled quality, efficiency, and consistency. You will guide a talented team of culinary professionals, conceptualize and refine our menus, and uphold the most stringent food safety standards. This position demands exceptional leadership, deep culinary knowledge, outstanding organizational prowess, and the capacity to excel in a dynamic, high-output setting.

Responsibilities and Duties

* Provide inspirational leadership and direction for all culinary activities within the central kitchen, optimizing workflow and ensuring timely production for all catering engagements. * Develop and standardize our culinary blueprints (recipes), guaranteeing consistent flavor profiles, visual appeal, and accurate portioning across all catered events. * Design innovative and appealing menu selections that thoughtfully consider client needs, dietary requirements, and current culinary trends. * Supervise the meticulous preparation and cooking of all food items, ensuring strict adherence to quality benchmarks and recipe specifications. * Conduct regular taste evaluations and quality assessments to maintain exceptional culinary standards. * Recruit, train, guide, and mentor our kitchen team, fostering a positive, collaborative, and productive work atmosphere. * Strategically schedule and manage kitchen staff to effectively meet production demands. * Delegate tasks and responsibilities thoughtfully, ensuring optimal utilization of our resources. * Conduct performance reviews and offer constructive feedback to support the growth of team members. * Cultivate strong teamwork and open communication within the kitchen environment. * Oversee the management of our ingredient and supply inventory, ensuring appropriate stock levels and minimizing waste. * Implement and refine efficient production methodologies to maximize output and control costs. * Ensure the proper functioning and upkeep of all kitchen equipment. * Collaborate closely with the catering operations team to guarantee seamless event execution. * Champion and enforce strict adherence to all food safety and hygiene regulations and standards (e.g., HACCP). * Ensure thorough sanitation and cleanliness of the kitchen and all equipment. * Implement and enforce best practices for food handling and storage to prevent any contamination. * Conduct routine inspections to verify full compliance with health and safety guidelines. * Assist in the creation of food budgets and diligently monitor food costs. * Actively work to minimize food waste and optimize the use of all resources. * Contribute to cost-effective menu planning and smart purchasing decisions. * Partner with the sales and event planning teams to fully understand client needs and preferences. * Participate in client meetings or tasting sessions as needed. * Address any culinary-related client inquiries or concerns with professionalism and care.

Qualifications and Requirements

* Extensive and verifiable experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Sous Chef within a high-volume catering operation or central kitchen. * A robust culinary background with demonstrated expertise in a wide range of cooking techniques and cuisines. * Comprehensive knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations (HACCP certification strongly preferred). * Proven leadership and team management capabilities, with a track record of motivating and developing staff. * Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities. * Strong communication and interpersonal abilities. * Demonstrated ability to perform effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines. * Proficiency in inventory management and cost control strategies. * A culinary degree or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.

Working Condition

Salary

Basic Salary 4500