Head chef

Job description

Title: Head Chef
Location: Tralee, County Kerry
Role Type: Full-time, Permanent (5 days over 7)
Reports To: General Manager

Introduction:

We are the Noel Group are delighted to share that we will be helping one of our most prestigious clients search for their next Head Chef. The Noel Group is a leading Recruiting agency that operates nationwide in wide a range of markets.

About the Role:

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and dynamic Head Chef to lead a talented kitchen team in delivering exceptional culinary experiences for a variety of events, weddings, and functions. As Head Chef, you will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards in food preparation, presentation, and kitchen operations while managing a team of chefs, kitchen porters, and assistants.

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive salary
• Opportunity to lead a talented team in a well-established hotel with a reputation for excellence
• Work in a busy and exciting environment, handling high-profile events such as weddings and corporate functions
• Room for career growth and personal development within a reputable organization
• Flexible working pattern of 5 days over 7, with weekends included as required

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage the kitchen team, ensuring efficient day-to-day operations and high-quality food production across all areas, including the hotel’s restaurant, events, and weddings.
• Design and update seasonal menus that offer variety, innovation, and meet guest expectations while considering cost-effectiveness.
• Manage kitchen budgets, including food costs, stock control, and inventory management, ensuring profitability and minimizing waste.
• Oversee the preparation and presentation of dishes, maintaining exceptional standards of quality and consistency.
• Handle all kitchen staffing, including recruitment, training, performance reviews, and ongoing development to build a strong, skilled team.
• Manage supplier relationships to ensure the timely delivery of quality ingredients, maintaining a cost-effective approach to procurement.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or similar senior kitchen role, ideally in a busy hotel or event-based environment.
• Strong financial management skills with experience in managing kitchen budgets, food costing, and controlling expenses.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with experience in leading a diverse kitchen team.
• Ability to thrive under pressure, especially during busy periods such as weddings and large events.