Head of Kitchen

Our client, a hospitality establishment based in Karen, Nairobi, is seeking an experienced and highly organised Head of Kitchen to oversee daily kitchen operations and lead the kitchen team.

The ideal candidate should have strong kitchen management experience, excellent food preparation skills and the ability to maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene, cost control and service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the kitchen.
• Plan and coordinate food preparation and production.
• Supervise, coordinate and provide direction to kitchen staff.
• Ensure consistency in food quality, taste, presentation and portion sizes.
• Monitor food preparation processes and ensure recipes and kitchen standards are followed.
• Manage kitchen inventory, stock levels and ingredient usage.
• Control food wastage and support effective food cost management.
• Ensure proper storage, handling and preparation of food.
• Maintain high standards of kitchen hygiene, cleanliness and food safety.
• Train, mentor and support kitchen team members.
• Coordinate kitchen operations during busy service periods.
• Monitor kitchen equipment and report maintenance requirements.
• Work closely with management on menu planning and kitchen improvements.
• Ensure compliance with applicable food safety and health standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience in a Head Chef, Head of Kitchen, Sous Chef or similar senior kitchen management position.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation and kitchen operations.
• Demonstrated experience managing and supervising kitchen staff.
• Good understanding of food costing, portion control and stock management.
• Strong knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a busy kitchen.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Relevant culinary training or certification will be an added advantage.