Pre-Opening Head Chef, Italian (Dubai)

Our partner is a prolific hospitality group with award-winning, thought-provoking venues that range from Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants to casual neighbourhood gems. They have a successful track record of creating unique concepts, delivering exceptional experiences, and telling powerful stories through food and design.

As the group embarks on their exciting journey towards international expansion, they are now on the lookout for a Pre-Opening Head Chef based in Dubai for their all-day Neo-Napoletana pizzeria inspired by the animated and colourful streets of Napoli. The menu will showcase the bold flavours and ingredients that Naples is well-known for, whilst pushing the boundaries of tradition.

The main responsibilities include:

• Leading and directing the culinary team to produce consistently excellent food that guests will love and return for;
• Building and training a high performing culinary team who takes pride in their work and consistently strive for excellence;
• Positioning the restaurant at the forefront of the dining scene;
• Identifying and actioning on opportunities to generate and maximise revenue;
• Consistently setting and achieving food cost and feedback targets;
• Fostering a work environment that embraces open communication and transparency;
• Collaborating closely with the FOH and back office teams on seasonal or adhoc projects;
• Maintaining close communication with the owners and Group Executive Chef, providing ongoing detailed updates on the business.
  
  
  

We seek candidates who have:

• A minimum of 5 years of culinary experience in high-volume, reputable restaurants, with pre-opening experience as a plus;
• A minimum of 3 years experience leading a team of 10 or more;
• An intimate knowledge of Italian and/or Mediterranean cuisine, in particular handmade pastas and Neapolitan pizza techniques;
• In-depth knowledge on kitchen processes, policies, technologies, and best hygiene practices;
• Exceptional analytical and proactive problem-solving skills;
• Excellent coaching, training, and mentoring skills;
• A strong focus on customer experience, ability to engage guests;
• A highly resourceful, efficient, and action-orientated working style, driving results while focusing on metrics;
• A high level of flexibility and adaptability to adjust to the changes and priorities of management.
  
  
  

What’s on the table:

• Working closely with a fast-growing international group with over 40++ venues in their portfolio;
• Opportunity to join a pre-opening team for their first venue in the Middle East;
• Ability to grow within the company as they continue to expand within the region.
  
  
  

The salary package is competitive and includes relocation support and visa sponsorship for applicable candidates.