Head Chef
Location: The Queens Pub, Dalkey, Co. Dublin
Reports To: General Manager / Operations Manager
Job Purpose
The Head Chef is responsible for leading all kitchen operations, ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality food while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, cost control, and team leadership. The Head Chef will oversee menu execution, stock management, staff development, and compliance with all company policies and Irish food safety legislation.
Key ResponsibilitiesKitchen Leadership
- Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team.
- Create a positive, professional, and high-performing working environment.
- Manage kitchen staffing levels and rota planning.
- Conduct training, coaching, and performance reviews.
- Promote teamwork and effective communication with Front of House management.
Food Quality
- Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented consistently to company standards.
- Maintain excellent food quality, portion control, and presentation.
- Monitor customer feedback and continuously improve food standards.
- Ensure all recipes and specifications are followed.
Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with HACCP procedures.
- Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene and cleanliness.
- Ensure compliance with all Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) regulations.
- Maintain temperature records and food safety documentation.
- Prepare for internal and external food safety inspections.
Stock & Cost Control
- Manage food purchasing and supplier relationships.
- Monitor stock levels and minimise waste.
- Complete regular stock takes.
- Control food costs and achieve GP targets.
- Reduce waste through effective ordering and stock rotation.
- Ensure all deliveries are checked and recorded accurately.
Kitchen Operations
- Organise daily kitchen operations efficiently.
- Ensure sufficient preparation for service.
- Maintain equipment and report maintenance issues promptly.
- Ensure opening and closing procedures are completed correctly.
- Support service during busy trading periods.
Health & Safety
- Maintain a safe working environment.
- Ensure compliance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act.
- Ensure all kitchen staff follow safe manual handling procedures.
- Report accidents and hazards immediately.
- Promote safe use of kitchen equipment.
Financial Responsibilities
- Manage kitchen labour costs.
- Monitor food margins and wastage.
- Work within departmental budgets.
- Support profitability through effective kitchen management.
Person SpecificationEssential
- Previous experience as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a busy restaurant, gastropub, or hotel.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent knowledge of HACCP and food safety legislation.
- Strong organisational and planning skills.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Ability to perform under pressure.
- High standards of cleanliness and attention to detail.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
- Fluent English.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Food quality and consistency.
- HACCP compliance.
- Kitchen audit results.
- Food cost percentage.
- Labour cost control.
- Customer satisfaction.
- Waste reduction.
- Team retention and development.
- Stock accuracy.
- Service efficiency.
Working Hours
Hours will be scheduled according to business requirements and may include evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Company Expectations
The Head Chef is expected to:
- Lead by example.
- Maintain professional standards at all times.
- Support and develop team members.
- Deliver exceptional customer experiences through outstanding food quality.
- Maintain confidentiality.
- Follow all company policies and procedures.
- Work collaboratively with the management team to achieve business objectives.
This job description outlines the main responsibilities of the role. It is not exhaustive, and additional duties may be assigned from time to time to meet the operational needs of the business.
Pay: €36,755.01-€65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Bike to work scheme
- On-site parking
Experience:
- Chef: 6 years (preferred)
Language:
Work authorisation:
Location:
- Dalkey, County Dublin (preferred)
Work Location: In person
