Job Description: Executive Chef – Colombo

We are seeking an experienced and dependable Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations of our kitchen in Colombo. This role is central to the quality, consistency, and creativity of the food we serve. The Executive Chef is responsible for overseeing the entire kitchen team, managing inventory, setting menu direction, maintaining hygiene standards, and ensuring all meals meet our service and presentation expectations.

This is a leadership position requiring both technical expertise and the ability to manage people, processes, and outcomes in a busy commercial kitchen.

Position Summary:

The Executive Chef will be in charge of daily kitchen activities including planning menus, supervising kitchen staff, ensuring food quality, managing stock levels, and maintaining proper hygiene. You are expected to bring structure, discipline, and efficiency to the kitchen while maintaining food that is consistently well-prepared and thoughtfully presented.

You must be able to handle pressure calmly, make decisions quickly, and lead a diverse team of cooks, stewards, and assistants. Your role will directly impact the overall guest experience and the reputation of our food operation.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and manage all kitchen operations including food preparation, presentation, portioning, and service.
Plan and update menus regularly in consultation with management and in line with seasonal availability and customer preferences.
Maintain the highest food quality standards while ensuring consistency in taste and presentation.
Supervise, train, and schedule kitchen staff to ensure smooth daily operations.
Monitor food production, stock levels, and usage to minimize waste and control costs.
Enforce strict hygiene, cleanliness, and safety procedures in accordance with local food regulations and internal policies.
Collaborate with procurement to ensure timely supply of ingredients and kitchen essentials.
Conduct regular checks on food storage, cold rooms, and equipment to ensure compliance and efficiency.
Manage kitchen budgets, inventory control, and supplier relations.
Handle staffing needs including recruitment, onboarding, training, evaluations, and, where necessary, disciplinary actions.
Take full responsibility for special events, banquets, or seasonal offerings, ensuring proper planning and execution.
Maintain documentation of recipes, costing, supplier records, and hygiene checklists.
Work closely with the front-of-house team to align food service with guest expectations and feedback.

Required Qualifications:

Professional Culinary Certification or Diploma from a recognized institute.
Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in a commercial kitchen, including 3+ years in a senior chef role (Sous Chef or above).
Strong background in both Sri Lankan and international cuisines.
Proven ability to lead and manage a diverse kitchen team.
In-depth understanding of food safety regulations, HACCP standards, and kitchen hygiene.
Experience managing food costs, menu planning, and supplier coordination.
Sound knowledge of kitchen equipment maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as required.

Preferred Attributes:

A practical approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
Clear and assertive communication style.
Respectful leadership that brings out the best in junior staff.
Punctual, reliable, and consistent in day-to-day responsibilities.
Open to feedback and committed to continuous improvement.
Comfortable with hands-on supervision and task delegation.
A calm temperament with the ability to manage pressure during peak service times.

Work Conditions:

Based at our main property in Colombo.
Fast-paced commercial kitchen environment with periods of high workload.
Exposure to heat, noise, and food ingredients.
Standing for long hours and active movement around the kitchen required.
Split-shifts and extended hours may be required depending on service demands.
Interaction with kitchen and service teams as well as vendors and management.
Uniforms and personal protective equipment provided.
Regular kitchen audits and inspections for hygiene and safety compliance.

What We Expect From You:

Full ownership of kitchen operations, performance, and presentation.
Reliable communication and clear delegation to your team.
Active contribution to menu quality, cost control, and operational improvement.
Strong personal hygiene and grooming standards.
Adherence to timelines and willingness to go the extra mile when needed.
Firm but fair leadership in managing your team and kitchen conduct.
Immediate action on any issues affecting food safety, equipment, or service quality.
Consistency — in both taste and standards — with every plate that leaves the kitchen.

What You Can Expect From Us:

A professional environment that respects culinary talent and discipline.
Competitive salary in line with your experience and scope of responsibilities.
All statutory entitlements including EPF/ETF, annual leave, and work benefits.
Access to training and opportunities to attend industry events or culinary showcases.
Clear communication from senior management and involvement in strategic decisions.
A supportive work culture that values input, structure, and performance.
Room for growth in a dynamic, service-focused organization.

Who Should Apply:

This role is ideal for seasoned chefs who:

Have built their experience steadily and are now ready for full kitchen leadership.
Enjoy working with food but understand the managerial side of the kitchen as well.
Want to take ownership of a busy kitchen and be measured by consistent performance.
Are seeking a structured work environment where standards and discipline matter.
Are based in or around Colombo, or willing to relocate.
Can balance culinary creativity with operational practicality.

If you’re ready to step into a role where every dish reflects your leadership and discipline, we want to hear from you.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should follow these steps:

Prepare a CV that clearly outlines your work history, training, and experience.
Include a brief cover letter that explains your interest in this specific role.
If available, include photos or descriptions of menus you have designed or special dishes you’ve created.
Mention your current location and availability to begin work.
Send your application by email to: careers@[yourhotel].lk with subject line: Executive Chef Application – Colombo
Or submit it in person to the HR Department, Weekdays 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an in-person interview and kitchen trial.

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Final Word:

A kitchen reflects its chef. We’re looking for someone who takes pride in well-run systems, clean execution, and respectful leadership. This is not about being flashy — it’s about being dependable, capable, and serious about food.

If that describes you, this is your opportunity. Take the next step in your culinary career with us in Colombo.

We look forward to meeting you.