About Company
Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa is a 5-star hotel in Nakuru, Kenya, embodying the perfect blend of modern elegance and natural tranquility. As part of the prestigious Sarova Hotels & Resorts chain, we are renowned for delivering unparalleled hospitality, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional culinary experiences. Our hotel serves as a haven for both business and leisure travelers, offering sophisticated dining venues, state-of-the-art conferencing facilities, and a rejuvenating spa. We are deeply committed to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and guest satisfaction, striving to create memorable moments through our dedicated team and world-class services. At Sarova Woodlands, we believe in celebrating the rich tapestry of Kenyan culture while adhering to international standards of luxury, making us a leading destination in the Rift Valley region. Join our team and become a part of a legacy that values passion, professionalism, and culinary artistry.
Job Description
Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa, a prestigious destination renowned for its elegance, exceptional service, and exquisite culinary offerings in Nakuru, Kenya, is seeking an exceptionally talented and passionate Fine Dining Chef to join our esteemed culinary team. This is a unique opportunity for a culinary artisan to showcase their creativity, skill, and leadership in an environment that values innovation and gastronomic excellence. As a Fine Dining Chef, you will be instrumental in crafting unforgettable dining experiences that exceed the expectations of our discerning guests. You will lead a dedicated section of our kitchen, taking ownership of menu development, ingredient sourcing, dish preparation, and presentation, all while upholding the highest standards of hygiene and quality. Your role will not just be about cooking; it will be about inspiring, mentoring, and collaborating with a team of culinary professionals to maintain Sarova Woodlands’ reputation as a beacon of luxury dining. We are looking for an individual with a profound understanding of diverse culinary techniques, a keen eye for detail, and an unwavering commitment to delivering excellence with every plate. If you are a visionary chef who thrives in a dynamic, high-pressure environment and possesses an innate ability to transform raw ingredients into culinary masterpieces, we invite you to contribute your artistry to our celebrated kitchen. This position demands a leader who can manage kitchen operations efficiently, control costs without compromising quality, and consistently innovate to keep our menus fresh and exciting. You will play a pivotal role in maintaining our culinary prestige, ensuring that every meal served is a testament to the luxurious experience our guests anticipate from Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa. We pride ourselves on utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, celebrating the rich agricultural bounty of Nakuru County and Kenya. Your expertise in integrating these elements into sophisticated, modern fine dining dishes will be highly valued. This role offers the chance to work alongside some of the best in the industry, push the boundaries of culinary art, and contribute significantly to our hotel’s legacy of luxury and guest satisfaction. Join us in setting new benchmarks for fine dining in Kenya.
Key Responsibilities
- Conceptualize, design, and execute innovative fine dining menus that reflect contemporary culinary trends and guest preferences, while utilizing local and seasonal ingredients.
- Oversee all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure exceptional quality, taste, and visual appeal for every dish.
- Manage and mentor a section of the kitchen team, including commis chefs and cooks, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
- Maintain strict adherence to hygiene, sanitation, and food safety standards (HACCP principles) across all kitchen operations.
- Monitor inventory levels, place orders for ingredients, and manage food costs effectively without compromising on quality.
- Collaborate with the Head Chef and other culinary leaders to plan special events, banquets, and customized dining experiences.
- Ensure consistency in portion control, plate presentation, and adherence to recipe specifications.
- Conduct regular training sessions for kitchen staff to enhance their culinary skills and knowledge.
- Troubleshoot and resolve any kitchen-related issues promptly and efficiently.
- Contribute to a positive and respectful working environment, promoting teamwork and professional growth.
Required Skills
- Proven expertise in fine dining cuisine and advanced culinary techniques.
- Exceptional creativity and innovation in menu development and dish presentation.
- Strong leadership and team management abilities, with experience mentoring junior chefs.
- Deep understanding of food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations (HACCP).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in inventory management and cost control.
- Extensive knowledge of various international cuisines and flavor profiles.
- Attention to detail and a commitment to perfection.
- Problem-solving skills and adaptability.
Preferred Qualifications
- Culinary degree or diploma from a recognized institution.
- Experience with sustainable sourcing and farm-to-table practices.
- Fluency in additional languages relevant to guest service (e.g., French, Swahili).
- Participation in culinary competitions or receipt of culinary awards.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and service charge.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth within Sarova Hotels & Resorts.
- Staff meals provided.
- Vibrant and supportive work environment.
- Discounted rates on hotel stays and services across Sarova properties.
- Training and mentorship from industry leaders.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume and cover letter highlight your fine dining experience, culinary philosophy, and leadership skills. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Sarova Woodlands family.