Head Chef

Job Description & Responsibilities

1. Kitchen & Daily Operations

• Lead and oversee all Back-of-House (BOH) kitchen operations to ensure smooth and efficient daily operations.
• Manage food preparation, cooking, plating and service according to company SOPs and quality standards.
• Ensure consistent taste, presentation, portion control and food quality across all dishes.
• Coordinate closely with the Restaurant Manager and FOH team to ensure smooth service, especially during peak periods.
• Monitor kitchen workflow, productivity and overall operational efficiency.

2. Chinese Cuisine & Menu Development

• Lead the preparation and execution of Chinese cuisine, ensuring authenticity, consistency and high food standards.
• Develop and improve recipes, dishes and menus in line with customer preferences and business objectives.
• Introduce new dishes and seasonal menu items where required.
• Standardise recipes, portion sizes and cooking methods across the kitchen.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared according to approved recipes and presentation standards.

3. Kitchen Team Management & Development

• Lead, supervise and motivate the kitchen team to achieve operational and food quality standards.
• Recruit, train and develop kitchen staff, including Commis Chefs, Demi Chefs, Chef de Partie and other BOH team members.
• Prepare staff schedules and ensure adequate manpower coverage during peak periods.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching and on-the-job training.
• Maintain discipline, teamwork and a positive working environment within the kitchen.

4. Food Cost, Inventory & Waste Control

• Monitor food costs and ensure effective control of ingredients and kitchen supplies.
• Manage inventory, purchasing, stock rotation and food storage.
• Work closely with suppliers and management to maintain consistent ingredient quality and competitive pricing.
• Minimise food wastage through proper portion control, preparation and stock management.
• Conduct regular stock checks and monitor food cost performance against budget.

5. Food Safety, Hygiene & Compliance

• Ensure strict compliance with SFA food safety, hygiene and sanitation requirements and company standards.
• Maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness, personal hygiene and food handling.
• Ensure proper storage, labelling, temperature control and FIFO practices.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and promptly address any food safety or hygiene issues.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is properly maintained and safely operated.

6. Labour & Productivity Management

• Manage kitchen manpower effectively to achieve operational and labour cost targets.
• Optimise staff deployment according to business volume and peak periods.
• Monitor staff productivity and identify opportunities to improve kitchen efficiency.
• Control overtime and ensure manpower is utilised effectively.

7. Sales & Business Support

• Work closely with the Restaurant Manager and Operations Manager to support sales and profitability targets.
• Provide input on menu pricing, food costs, new dishes and kitchen-related promotions.
• Support promotional campaigns, special events and new menu launches.
• Monitor customer feedback relating to food quality and implement improvements where necessary.

8. Administrative & Reporting

• Ensure timely completion and submission of required kitchen reports and records.
• Maintain records relating to inventory, food costs, wastage, staff attendance and kitchen operations.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, SOPs and internal training requirements.
• Carry out other duties and responsibilities as assigned by Management.

Requirements

• Minimum 5–8 years of relevant kitchen experience, with proven experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef or Senior Chef in Chinese F&B operations.
• Strong knowledge and practical experience in Chinese cuisine, preferably in a restaurant or multi-outlet F&B environment.
• Proven ability to lead, manage and develop a kitchen team.
• Strong knowledge of Chinese cooking techniques, ingredients, food preparation and presentation.
• Experience in menu development, recipe standardisation and food costing.
• Good understanding of food safety, hygiene and SFA requirements.
• Strong knowledge of inventory, purchasing, stock control and wastage management.
• Able to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant environment.
• Strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on, responsible and able to lead by example.
• Willing to work weekends, public holidays and extended hours when required.
• Relevant culinary qualifications or professional chef certification will be an advantage.
• Candidates with experience in Chinese restaurant chains, banquet operations or multi-outlet F&B groups will have an added advantage.