Chef de Cuisine – Airport Lounge (Dubai)

About the role

The Emirates Flight Catering team is seeking a Chef de Cuisine to lead kitchen operations for its premium airport lounge outlets in Dubai. You will be responsible for delivering world‑class dining experiences to First and Business Class passengers while ensuring strict compliance with safety, quality and cost standards.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations in EK airport lounges, maintaining portion control, presentation standards and food safety compliance.
• Develop and implement innovative à la carte and buffet menus for premium lounges, conducting tasting panels and training staff on advanced plating techniques.
• Lead, mentor and evaluate a diverse culinary team, including Sous Chefs, fostering creativity, efficiency and teamwork.
• Manage kitchen resources, optimise waste reduction, and implement cost‑control strategies without compromising luxury quality.
• Ensure adherence to SOPs, health, safety and HACCP regulations, maintaining exemplary KPI scores.
• Address high‑level customer feedback, collaborate with F&B service and EK staff to guarantee seamless service delivery.
• Prepare and maintain detailed recipe sheets, buffet specifications and performance reports for senior management.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Culinary Arts, Hotel Management or related field.
• Minimum 8 years progressive culinary experience in luxury hospitality, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in high‑volume food production, menu development, cost control and multi‑outlet kitchen management.
• Extensive knowledge of international cuisines, current culinary trends and food safety regulations (HACCP).
• Fluent English; additional languages are a plus.

Required skills

• Proficiency with kitchen management software.
• Experience using inventory control systems.
• Strong understanding of HACCP principles and food safety regulations.