Head Chef

Job Title: Head Chef
Nature of Job: Full‑time
Industry: Hospitality
Salary: Kshs. 40,000
Job Location: Isiolo, Kenya

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled Head Chef to lead our kitchen team in delivering high-quality meals in a dynamic hospitality environment. This full-time role involves overseeing all kitchen operations, from menu development and food preparation to team management and cost control, ensuring exceptional service and customer satisfaction.

The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, culinary expertise, and a commitment to food safety to drive efficiency and profitability in our Isiolo-based operations.

Duties and Responsibilities

Kitchen Leadership and Team Management

• Lead, supervise, and coordinate all kitchen staff including chefs, cooks, and kitchen assistants.

• Assign daily duties and responsibilities to kitchen team members to ensure smooth workflow.

• Provide training, mentorship, and guidance to kitchen staff to improve culinary skills and operational efficiency.

• Monitor staff performance and provide feedback to maintain high productivity and service standards.

• Prepare and manage staff schedules to ensure adequate kitchen coverage during operating hours.

• Foster teamwork, discipline, and professionalism within the kitchen.

Menu Planning and Development

• Develop creative and appealing menus that align with customer preferences and business objectives.

• Plan daily meals and special dishes while considering ingredient availability and cost efficiency.

• Regularly review and update menus to introduce new dishes and maintain variety.

• Standardize recipes and portion sizes to ensure consistency in taste and presentation.

• Collaborate with management on promotional menus, special events, and seasonal offerings.

Food Preparation and Quality Control

• Oversee the preparation and cooking of meals to ensure they meet quality, taste, and presentation standards.

• Personally prepare key dishes or supervise critical food preparation processes when necessary.

• Ensure meals are prepared in a timely manner to meet service demands.

• Conduct quality checks on ingredients and finished dishes before they are served.

• Maintain consistency in flavour, appearance, and portioning across all meals.

Kitchen Operations Management

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the kitchen to ensure efficiency and productivity.

• Ensure proper use and maintenance of kitchen equipment and appliances.

• Monitor workflow to minimize delays and maintain smooth service during peak hours.

• Implement systems that improve kitchen productivity and operational efficiency.

• Ensure compliance with established operational procedures.

Inventory Management and Procurement

• Monitor stock levels of food ingredients and kitchen supplies.

• Prepare purchase requisitions and coordinate with management to ensure timely procurement.

• Inspect deliveries to ensure quality and accuracy of supplies received.

• Maintain proper storage and stock rotation practices (FIFO) to reduce spoilage and waste.

• Keep accurate records of inventory usage and stock levels.

Cost Control and Waste Management

• Manage food costs by monitoring portion control and minimizing wastage.

• Track kitchen expenses and recommend cost-effective purchasing strategies.

• Ensure efficient utilization of ingredients to maximize profitability.

• Identify opportunities to reduce operational costs without compromising quality.

Food Safety, Hygiene, and Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to food safety and hygiene standards in the kitchen.

• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of all kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils.

• Ensure proper food handling, storage, and preparation procedures are followed.

• Train kitchen staff on hygiene practices and safety regulations.

• Ensure compliance with local health and safety regulations.

Collaboration and Reporting

• Work closely with management to improve food offerings and customer satisfaction.

• Provide regular reports on kitchen performance, food costs, and inventory levels.

• Address customer feedback related to food quality and service where necessary.

• Support management in planning catering services, special events, and operational improvements.

Key Requirements

• Diploma in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or a related field.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a Chef and at least 1-year experience as a Head Chef or in a supervisory kitchen role.

• Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, food presentation, and menu development.

• Proven leadership and team management skills.

• Knowledge of food safety standards and kitchen hygiene practices.

• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.

Perks and Benefits

• Competitive salary of Kshs.40,000.

• Staff meals provided during shifts.

• Opportunities for professional development and training.

• Supportive work environment with team-building activities.

• Potential for performance-based incentives and career growth in hospitality.

If you have the leadership grit and culinary expertise required for this role, please forward your updated CV to the management team quoting the job title "Head Chef - Isiolo".