Head Chef – Italian Cuisine at Casa Mia

About the role

Le Meridien’s Casa Mia restaurant in Dubai is seeking a Head Chef to lead its Italian cuisine operation. The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall success of daily kitchen activities, ensuring high‑quality dishes, guest satisfaction and adherence to budgetary targets.

Key responsibilities

• Direct and supervise all kitchen areas, preparing and cooking a full range of Italian dishes for daily service and special events.
• Develop new menus and recipes, continuously improving culinary standards and presentation.
• Maintain food safety and sanitation compliance, monitor temperature controls and ensure all health regulations are met.
• Manage purchasing, receiving, storage and inventory of food products, and oversee equipment maintenance.
• Lead, coach and schedule the culinary team, handling performance appraisals and training on menu items.
• Control portion sizes, waste and cost, contributing to the restaurant’s budget and financial goals.

Required profile

• High school diploma/GED with at least 4 years of culinary experience, or a 2‑year degree in Culinary Arts/Hotel Management with 2 years of experience.
• Proven ability to supervise kitchen staff, manage day‑to‑day operations and step in to perform cooking duties when needed.
• Strong understanding of food handling, sanitation standards and relevant local regulations.

Required skills

• Culinary arts and menu development
• Food safety and sanitation compliance
• Kitchen equipment operation and maintenance