Executive Chef

About the Role

Courtyard by Marriott is seeking an Executive Chef to oversee all daily kitchen operations in Riyadh. This full-time role requires a culinary professional with 5-10 years of experience who can lead a team, manage food-related functions, and ensure high-quality product consistency while maximizing financial performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen management team and provide direction for day-to-day operations across all food preparation areas, including banquets, room service, restaurants, bar/lounge, and employee cafeteria.
• Supervise all kitchen areas to ensure consistent, high-quality product production and adherence to sanitation and food standards.
• Guide and develop staff, including direct reports, by setting performance standards, monitoring performance, and providing ongoing training in cooking techniques and plate presentations.
• Develop and implement guidelines and control procedures for purchasing and receiving, managing department controllable expenses such as food cost, supplies, uniforms, and equipment.
• Ensure culinary standards are met by providing direction for menu development, monitoring food product quality, and creating decorative food displays.
• Maintain compliance with food handling and sanitation standards, ensuring proper handling and temperature of all food products, and that employees hold required certifications.
• Provide exceptional customer service by ensuring operations meet customer expectations, displaying leadership in guest hospitality, and interacting with guests to obtain feedback.
• Manage human resource activities including identifying developmental needs, coaching, mentoring, administering performance appraisals, and managing progressive discipline procedures.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of 5-10 years of experience in a similar culinary leadership role.
• Demonstrated culinary talents and the ability to personally perform tasks while leading a team.
• Strong understanding of kitchen operations, including purchasing, receiving, and food storage standards.
• Proficiency in developing and implementing guidelines and control procedures.
• Knowledge of budgeting processes and managing controllable expenses.
• Familiarity with brand safety standards and procedures.

Required Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to lead, influence, and encourage team members.
• Ability to advocate sound financial and business decision-making.
• Demonstrated honesty and integrity, leading by example.
• Capacity to build mutual trust, respect, and cooperation within the team.
• Problem-solving skills to analyze information and evaluate results to choose the best solutions.
• Ability to provide guidance, feedback, and individual coaching to improve service.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh, where the Executive Chef will oversee all food preparation and support areas within the property. The role involves working closely with various departments, including banquets and catering, to ensure seamless operations and guest satisfaction.

Application Process

Candidates who meet the above qualifications are encouraged to apply. Salary details will be discussed during the interview process.