Head Chef

Job description

Head Chef – 4-Star Hotel | Galway

Salary: €60,000 – €70,000
Location: Galway, Ireland
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

A prestigious 4-star hotel in Galway is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead its culinary operations. This is an exciting opportunity for a creative and driven culinary professional to take ownership of a busy kitchen, shape menu direction, and deliver exceptional dining experiences across restaurant, bar, banqueting, and events offerings.

About the Role

The successful candidate will oversee all kitchen activities, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, cost control, and team management. You will play a key role in driving the hotel’s culinary identity, maintaining excellence in both service and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all kitchen operations, ensuring smooth and efficient service delivery across multiple outlets.

• Develop and execute seasonal menus that reflect creativity, quality, and consistency.

• Train, mentor, and motivate the kitchen team, fostering a positive and professional culture.

• Manage food purchasing, supplier relationships, and stock control.

• Maintain strict compliance with HACCP, food safety, and hygiene standards.

• Oversee food cost budgeting, waste reduction, and margin optimisation.

• Collaborate closely with senior management on menu planning, special events, and business goals.

• Ensure effective rostering, staffing, and labour cost management.

• Drive innovation and continuously enhance guest culinary experience.

Requirements

• Minimum 5+ years’ experience in a senior culinary role, ideally within a 4- or 5-star hotel or high-volume establishment.

• Proven ability to lead a kitchen team at Head Chef or Executive Chef level.

• Strong understanding of food costings, menu engineering, and kitchen operations.

• A passion for high-quality cuisine, creativity, and exceptional standards.

• HACCP certification and strong knowledge of food safety systems.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary €60,000 – €70,000 DOE

• Opportunity to lead and shape a well-established culinary operation

• Supportive management team and positive workplace culture

• Opportunity for professional growth and career development