The Head Chef, depending on context, is the chef with sole charge of the kitchen or, in larger kitchens, is the chef immediately answerable to an Executive Chef. Both these job titles (Head Chef and Executive Chef) are, to an extent, fungible and often used interchangeably. That noted, in the strictest sense, they are distinct titles referring to related, or complementary kitchen roles.
Head Chef Job Description
Larger businesses often have both an Executive Chef and, at least, one Head Chef. In this situation one, the Executive Chef, is, to a large extent, a management position while the Head Chef is more operationally active; the Head Chef typically being the interface role responsible for execution of the Executive Chef’s directions and vision.
In smaller, and less operationally complex, operations the job title Head Chef can, and often does, refer the the chef with sole responsibility for all culinary operations, essentially combining the roles of Head Chef and Executive Chef. Immediately beneath the Head Chef then would usually be the Sous Chef(s) who shoulder a share of the responsibility for executing, and supervising, the daily activities in the kitchen, in accordance and in collaboration, with the Head Chef.
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In recruitment terms it’s always important to be clear about what “sort” of Head Chef is being hired. One answerable to an Executive Chef, or one whose immediate superior is outside the kitchen, often the General Manager or Food and Beverage manager. Likewise in terms of drafting an exacting Head Chef Job Description it’s vital to be clear for which variety of Head Chef the job description is being designed.
Embedded on this page is a downloadable Head Chef Job Description. As with any other Chef Jobs Descriptions available on this site this downloadable job description is not intended to be used “as is.” No two Head Chef jobs are the same, no two businesses identical and no two sets of legal or company obligations alike. That’s who there’s no all purpose Head Chef job description template that can reliably be described as fit for purpose available anywhere. So please use this job description as a starting point only and ensure that your own draft descriptions are tailored to comply with your company standards and legal obligations.
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