Executive Chef – High-End Hotel, Nairobi

About the role

A high-end hotel in Nairobi, recruited through Summit Recruitment & Search, is looking for a creative Executive Chef to report to the General Manager. The successful candidate will lead the culinary vision across all outlets (all-day dining, specialty restaurants, banquets and events, bar/lounge, in-room dining) and build an empowered, agile brigade that delivers world-class quality.

Key responsibilities

• Develop outlet-specific, seasonal menus and signature dishes that balance creativity, brand identity, guest appeal and profitability.
• Lead kitchen operations across outlets, enforcing consistent standards for taste, presentation, hygiene, timing and service.
• Ensure full compliance with HACCP and food safety regulations, maintaining audits, controls and corrective actions.
• Build and lead the kitchen brigade through workforce planning, coaching, performance management and succession development.
• Own food cost, gross profit and waste reduction targets, and work on pricing, supplier negotiations and weekly P&L reviews.
• Act as the culinary ambassador, driving guest engagement, feedback improvement, activations and public-facing culinary experiences.
• Foster an inclusive kitchen culture through training and skills development.
• Partner with F&B, Finance, Procurement, HR, Marketing and Operations, reporting regularly to the GM.

Required profile

• Diploma or degree in Culinary Arts; advanced culinary or leadership certification preferred.
• 8-12+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience, including multi-outlet luxury hotel or fine-dining environments.
• HACCP and food safety certified, with knowledge of allergen management and compliance.
• Commercially and data-driven, with strong communication and collaboration skills.