Executive Chef (Pastry and Chocolates)

Key Responsibilities

Production Leadership

• Lead and manage daily chocolate and pastry production operations.
• Supervise, train, and mentor the kitchen team to ensure discipline, efficiency, and quality.
• Manage scheduling, workflow, and output to meet production targets.

Technical Expertise

• Operate, maintain, and optimize SELMI chocolate machinery (enrobers, tempering, one-shot lines, etc.).
• Oversee bean-to-bar processing including roasting, grinding, conching, and refining.
• Ensure compliance with international food safety standards (ISO, HACCP, FSSC).

Research & Development

• Create innovative chocolate products, pastries, and seasonal flavors.
• Develop limited editions, corporate gifting collections, and products for international markets.
• Experiment with textures, fillings, and flavor pairings to stay ahead of trends.

Quality & Compliance

• Uphold premium quality standards across all product lines.
• Enforce hygiene, safety, and sanitation practices in line with UAE and export regulations.
• Monitor raw material usage, inventory, and wastage.

Collaboration & Reporting

• Work with management, operations, and marketing teams to align production with brand vision.
• Report on production performance, team updates, and R&D progress.
• Support product launches, tastings, and client demonstrations when required.

Requirements

• 3–5 years’ experience as Senior Chef / Executive Pastry Chef / Head of Production in premium chocolate or pastry kitchens.
• Hands-on expertise with SELMI chocolate line and bean-to-bar processes.
• Strong background in chocolate innovation and pastry development.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Knowledge of HACCP, ISO 22000, FSSC, and export-compliance standards.
• Culinary / pastry / chocolatier qualification preferred.
• Fluency in English; Arabic/other languages a plus.

Preferred Skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Creative mindset with a passion for unique chocolate concepts.
• Awareness of international chocolate trends and premium markets.
• Problem-solving skills and attention to detail.