Executive Head Chef

Drive Culinary Strategy & Lead a High-Impact Kitchen Operation in Shanghai!

About the Restaurant:

An upscale fine dining destination in Shanghai, renowned for redefining culinary excellence and delivering unforgettable gastronomic experiences. The restaurant blends the finest premium ingredients with innovative techniques, artistic presentation, and a sophisticated, immersive atmosphere. Serving a discerning international clientele, it offers a stage for visionary chefs to showcase creativity, lead elite teams, and set new standards in luxury dining—making every service a masterpiece.

About the Role:

The Executive Head Chef is a senior leadership role responsible for both culinary direction and business performance of the kitchen. This position requires a results-driven professional with strong HR and operational expertise—capable of building structured teams, driving KPIs, and ensuring compliance while maintaining exceptional food standards. The role is critical in aligning kitchen operations with overall business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & People Management

• Lead, structure, and manage the kitchen brigade, ensuring clear roles, accountability, and performance standards.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, training, and retention strategies in collaboration with HR.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations, appraisals, and disciplinary actions when required.
• Build succession plans and identify high-potential talent within the team.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and performance-driven work culture.

Operations & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with local labor laws, food safety regulations, and company policies.
• Develop, implement, and audit SOPs for all kitchen processes.
• Maintain high standards of hygiene, sanitation, and workplace safety at all times.
• Manage scheduling, attendance, and workforce planning to optimize productivity.

Financial & Business Performance

• Take full ownership of kitchen P&L, including food cost, labor cost, and operational expenses.
• Monitor and control inventory, wastage, and procurement processes.
• Analyze sales and operational data to drive cost efficiency and profitability.
• Implement cost-control measures without compromising quality.

Culinary Excellence & Innovation

• Design and execute menus that align with brand positioning and market trends.
• Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation across all dishes.
• Continuously innovate and improve offerings based on guest feedback and industry trends.
• Work closely with management on promotions, seasonal menus, and concept development.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Partner with front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
• Liaise with suppliers and vendors to maintain quality and cost efficiency.
• Support senior management in strategic planning and expansion initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in upscale or high-volume operations.
• Strong background in HR practices, including recruitment, performance management, and labor compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to manage kitchen P&L and achieve financial targets.
• Excellent leadership and team development skills.
• Strong understanding of SOP implementation and operational controls.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
• High level of business acumen and analytical thinking.
• Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred.

Why Join Us:

• Strategic leadership role with strong influence on business direction.
• Competitive executive compensation package.
• Opportunity to build, lead, and scale a high-performing culinary team.
• Exposure to a fast-growing, high-demand market in Shanghai.
• Career advancement within a structured and performance-driven organization.
• Platform to combine culinary creativity with operational and business leadership.