Executive Chef

Open 44d

Company description

Raffles Diriyah is a glamorous new landmark in Diriyah u2013 Saudi Arabiau2019s u201cCity of Earth.u201d Set against the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al-Tuarif and the scenic Wadi Hanifa. Inspired by Najdi heritage, and infused with Rafflesu2019 timeless elegance, Raffles Diriyah sets the standard for gracious hospitality, cultural curiosity, and legendary service.

At Raffles Diriyah, people are the soul of everything we do. We are champions of culture, custodians of community, and passionate curators of meaningful guestsu2019 experience. Here, guests arrive as visitors, leave as friends, and return as family.

Job description

The Executive Chef leads all culinary operations for Raffles Diriyah. Acting as the property's culinary ambassador, this role defines and embodies the hotel's gastronomic identity across all outlets, banquets, residences, and in-room dining, ensuring every culinary experience reflects Raffles' legacy of refined hospitality and Saudi heritage. As an Executive Committee member, the Executive Chef partners closely with the General Manager on pre-opening strategy, budget, brand positioning, and team building.

Pre-opening

Lead culinary input into OS&E specification and concept development for all F&B outlets, including any signature or specialty dining concepts
Own the pre-opening budget for the culinary department, including staffing, equipment, and food cost projections
Build the culinary organizational structure and manning plan
Recruit, interview, and onboard senior culinary leadership (Executive Sous Chef, Chef de Cuisine, Pastry Chef, Chief Steward, etc.)
Develop opening menus, recipe standards, and SOPs aligned to Raffles brand standards and local market expectations

Operational leadership

Direct food ordering, preparation, production, and quality control across all restaurants, bars, banquets, in-room dining, and residences
Set and uphold the highest standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and safety across all kitchens
Manage food cost, labour cost, and overall departmental P&L performance
Continuously refine kitchen operating procedures and drive innovation in menu offerings
Ensure full compliance with Saudi food safety, health, licensing, and fire/safety regulations

Leadership & culture

Influence the skills, knowledge, and team spirit of the entire culinary operation
Foster a positive, respectful, and high-performance kitchen culture; uphold disciplinary and grievance procedures fairly
Mentor and develop talents
Maintain close cross-departmental collaboration with F&B Service, Procurement, and Engineering

Guest relations

Engage with guests to elevate the dining experience and respond to feedback
Represent the culinary department, media engagements, and high-profile events
Support marketing in developing promotional menus and signature culinary moments tied to the property's brand story

Qualifications

Minimum 10+ years progressive culinary leadership experience, including 3+ years as Executive Chef in an internationally branded luxury/ultra-luxury hotel
Proven pre-opening experience strongly preferred
Strong knowledge of Middle Eastern/Saudi cuisine and ability to blend authentic local flavors with international fine dining standards
Demonstrated P&L, food cost, and large-team management capability
Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Culinary degree/certification and food safety credentials (HACCP or equivalent)
Fluency in English required; Arabic a plus

Additional information

Employee benefit card offering discounted rates at Accor properties worldwide
Complimentary duty meal
Opportunity to develop your talent and grow within your property and across the world
Ability to make a difference through our Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability activities

Our commitment to diversity & inclusion

We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit, and promote diverse talent.

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