Executive Chef - Raffles Diriyah

Company Description

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.