Head chef

Saddle House Sharjah is recruiting a seasoned Head Chef to lead kitchen operations, shape our menu identity, and drive culinary excellence across a busy, modern dining concept. This senior leadership role suits a culinary professional with a proven track record in menu development, cost control, team leadership, and high-volume service. The Head Chef will own food quality, consistency, and presentation while building a motivated, skilled brigade that delivers on speed and standards during peak covers. Responsibilities include designing and refining menus, managing supplier relationships, controlling food costs and waste, enforcing food safety and hygiene standards, and mentoring sous chefs, CDPs, and commis staff. The ideal candidate combines creative culinary vision with operational discipline: strong technical skills across hot and cold sections, pastry collaboration, and the ability to implement scalable recipes and plating guides. Excellent communication and leadership are essential to maintain morale, train staff, and ensure smooth coordination with front-of-house teams. Local candidates eligible to work in the UAE with at least five years in senior kitchen roles are preferred. Interviews are scheduled for Tuesday, 10 February 2026; shortlisted applicants will receive interview details by phone. If you are a strategic, hands-on culinary leader who thrives on consistency, innovation, and team development, Saddle House Sharjah invites your application.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Kitchen Leadership and Team Management
  • Lead and develop the kitchen team; recruit, train, and mentor sous chefs, CDPs, and commis.
  • Create clear role responsibilities, run effective briefings, and maintain high staff morale and discipline.
• Menu Development and Culinary Standards
  • Design, test, and document menu items, specials, and seasonal offerings; produce standardized recipes and plating guides.
  • Ensure consistent food quality, portion control, and presentation across all services.
• Operational Management
  • Oversee daily kitchen operations including prep schedules, mise en place, and service flow to meet timing targets.
  • Coordinate with FOH leadership to manage covers, VIPs, and special events.
• Cost Control and Procurement
  • Manage food cost targets through portion control, waste reduction, and supplier negotiation.
  • Approve purchasing, monitor stock levels, and implement inventory controls with the Store Keeper.
• Food Safety and Compliance
  • Enforce HACCP and local food safety regulations; maintain kitchen cleanliness and equipment maintenance schedules.
  • Conduct regular audits, temperature checks, and staff hygiene training.
• Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement
  • Run regular tastings, calibrations, and feedback sessions to maintain standards.
  • Implement process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance guest satisfaction.

Requirements

• Experience
  • Minimum 5+ years in senior kitchen roles, with demonstrable experience as Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef in a high-volume restaurant, hotel, or multi-outlet operation.
• Culinary Skills
  • Strong technical ability across hot and cold kitchens; familiarity with pastry collaboration and modern plating techniques.
  • Proven menu development experience and ability to standardize recipes for consistent execution.
• Leadership and Management
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and retain kitchen staff; strong rostering and conflict-resolution skills.
  • Experience managing budgets, food cost targets, and supplier relationships.
• Certifications and Compliance
  • Food safety certification (HACCP or equivalent) preferred.
  • Knowledge of local health and safety regulations and kitchen equipment maintenance.
• Personal Attributes
  • High standards of professionalism, resilience under pressure, excellent communication, and a collaborative mindset.
  • Local resident eligible to work in the UAE; flexible availability including weekends and public holidays.

About Saddle House

Saddle House is a contemporary hospitality brand focused on delivering consistent, high-quality guest experiences through thoughtfully crafted menus and a collaborative team culture. We prioritize staff development and internal progression, offering clear pathways for culinary and operational growth. Our Sharjah location blends local hospitality traditions with modern dining standards, emphasizing speed, warmth, and product excellence. Joining Saddle House means working in a supportive environment where strong performers are recognized and given opportunities to expand their skills and responsibilities.

Application Process

1. Apply Online — Complete the application form and attach your CV at https://lnkd.in/dM9M9fRW.
2. Shortlisting — Applications will be screened for relevant experience, leadership background, and eligibility; shortlisted candidates will receive a phone call.
3. Interview — Interviews are scheduled for Tuesday, 10 February 2026; shortlisted applicants will be given time slots and location details. Bring an updated CV, valid ID, and any culinary portfolio or references.
4. Assessment — Expect competency questions, menu discussion, and a practical assessment or tasting exercise to demonstrate technical skills and leadership under service conditions.
5. Offer and Onboarding — Successful candidates will receive an offer and onboarding schedule including induction, kitchen orientation, and training plan.