Executive Chef

About the role

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts is hiring an Executive Chef in Nairobi (Westlands). The role is accountable for the overall success of daily kitchen operations, supervising all food preparation areas such as banquets, room service, restaurants, bar/lounge and the employee cafeteria, as well as support areas like the dish room and purchasing. The chef guides and develops staff, ensures food and sanitation standards are met, and works to improve guest and employee satisfaction while maximising financial performance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen management team, give direction to day-to-day operations and set performance standards for subordinates
• Supervise cooks and workers, review staffing levels and manage departmental expenses including food cost, supplies, uniforms and equipment
• Develop and implement purchasing and receiving guidelines, participate in budgeting and follow brand safety standards
• Guide menu development, monitor food quality and presentation, and ensure compliance with food handling and sanitation standards
• Provide direction for customer service, handle guest complaints and use guest feedback to drive improvements
• Coach and mentor staff, administer performance appraisals, train kitchen associates on cooking and plating, and manage progressive discipline in line with SOPs

Required profile

• 3-5 years of experience in a similar leadership role within a luxury hotel environment
• Strong international culinary experience, particularly in the Middle East, Africa and Asia (MEA)
• Proven background in large, busy operations with a strong banquet foundation
• Exceptional leadership, communication and organisational skills, able to thrive under pressure

Required skills

• Solid understanding of food costing and production planning
• Kitchen management and HACCP hygiene standards