Executive Chef

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

• 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