Responsibility
The Head Chef assumes overall responsibility for the leadership, creativity and performance of the Oliveto kitchen, ensuring consistently exceptional food, a motivated and talented team and the smooth running of all kitchen operations.
You’ll play a central role in shaping Oliveto’s food offering, staying true to our philosophy of fresh, seasonal ingredients, simple but confident cooking and genuine hospitality. A set goal of attaining Michelin recommendation or Michelin bib in early 2028, based on performance in 2027.
Key Skills
Proven experience as a Head Chef or an accomplished Sous Chef ready to take the next step, ideally within a well-respected, quality-led restaurant where freshness, seasonality and provenance of ingredients are key priorities
A genuine passion for food, with a creative approach to menu development and a strong appreciation for simple, beautifully executed dishes.
Existing success at Michelin Recommended or Michelin Bib level
Proven track record of leading, motivating and developing kitchen teams, creating an environment where people enjoy coming to work and want to do their best
Strong commercial awareness, with the ability to manage food costs, labour, suppliers and kitchen operations without compromising quality
A natural leader who sets high standards, leads by example and creates an environment where your team can be their best selves
Passion for hospitality and bringing a positive impact on the people you interact with, leaving guests with a memorable experience
You’re not precious – we leave our egos at the door, roll up our sleeves and help get stuff done
You want to be part of a team that works hard, supports each other, takes pride in what they do and has fun along the way
Key Tasks
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Lead and inspire a close-knit, dynamic kitchen team, creating a positive, collaborative environment where everyone takes pride in what they do
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Nurture and develop talent in the kitchen, building a strong team culture that brings out the best in people and where they can be themselves
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Take ownership of our menus, bringing fresh ideas, creativity and seasonal inspiration whilst maintaining the quality, consistency and integrity of the Oliveto food offering
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Ensure the kitchen runs without a hitch, from efficient prep and smooth service to supplier relationships, ordering, stock management and the highest standards of food hygiene (HACCP)
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Take responsibility for kitchen financial performance, managing food costs, labour and waste whilst never compromising on the quality of ingredients or the guest experience
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Think outside the box and continually drive standards, challenging how we do things and finding better ways to deliver great food and a great kitchen environment
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Work closely with our restaurant and hotel management teams to ensure a seamless experience for our guests and a strong connection between the kitchen and front of house
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Both guest and team experience will be at the heart of all you do.
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You’ll lead by example, remaining hands-on, approachable and involved, particularly when the pressure is on
Role Requirements
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Located in Haddington House Hotel in Dún Laoghaire
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Scheduled week is Mon-Sun but roster format is designed to allow for two days off together (unless operational issues dictate a change)
- Suggested working week is Tue-Sat and every fourth weekend off (Sat & Sun)
- Three single shifts (3-11pm Tue-Thu), one double shift (11am-11pm Fri) and one mixed shift (11am-5pm on the pass and 5-8pm to complete roster/admin/planning for upcoming week)
- Average working week is 45 hours
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Six month probation period
Benefits
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Above market pay rate
- TRONC system, managed and run by staff
- Set fixed annual bonus rewarded on successful inclusion in Michelin Guide
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Hotel culture around work/life balance, this is key to sustainable employment
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Complimentary staff food on each shift
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Training provided, based on personal development goals
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Staff discount on food in Oliveto
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Chef apron provided (and laundered)
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Quality leadership team, giving clear direction and encouraging progression
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Location by the sea, enabling staff to swim, cycle, run before or after work