Personal Chef (Continental Cuisine) at Gap Recruitment Services Limited

Job Purpose:

The Personal Chef will be responsible for preparing daily meals and catering for high-profile events held at the residence. The role demands someone with formal culinary training, strong knowledge of food safety standards, creativity in menu planning, and the ability to tailor meals to the Ambassadors dietary needs and preferences. In addition to cooking, the chef will handle inventory, purchasing, cleanliness, and administrative duties related to the kitchen.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Preparation & Meal Service:

• Plan, prepare, and serve high-quality meals, particularly continental cuisine.
• Design weekly menus based on the Ambassadors dietary requirements, nutritional goals, and preferences.
• Accommodate special requests and prepare meals for private dinners, professional events, and receptions.
• Plan and prepare pastries and a variety of dishes for guests and official functions.

Kitchen Operations & Hygiene:

• Maintain a clean, organized, and hygienic kitchen at all times.
• Ensure proper storage, freshness, and safety of all food and ingredients.
• Organize kitchen equipment and food items for optimal use and presentation.
• Uphold high standards of food safety, cleanliness, and kitchen organization.

Inventory Management & Procurement:

• Manage stock of kitchen supplies, food, and beverages.
• Conduct regular stock-taking and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Shop for fresh ingredients, track expenses, and ensure value for purchases.
• Maintain accurate financial records related to kitchen expenses and purchasing.

Collaboration & Event Support:

• Work closely with the Head Housekeeper and Housekeeper to ensure smooth household operations.
• Coordinate with embassy staff for event planning and meal service requirements.
• Offer kitchen support during official receptions, events, and high-profile visits.
• Ensure timely preparation of meals in line with household schedules and event timelines.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Formal culinary training and certification from a recognized institution.
• Minimum of 5 years experience as a personal or private chef, preferably in a diplomatic or high-profile household.
• Proficiency in a wide range of cuisines, particularly continental cuisine.
• Experience in pastry preparation is highly desirable.
• Sound knowledge of food safety, hygiene practices, and kitchen management.
• Ability to plan and organize kitchen operations independently.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Excellent cooking skills with attention to quality and detail.
• Good time management and multitasking abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and respect for privacy.
• Team player with ability to collaborate with household and embassy staff.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing schedules and preferences.
• Proficiency in basic Microsoft Office tools for record keeping and budgeting.
• Creativity in menu design and passion for culinary excellence.

Work Environment:

• Close collaboration with the Head Housekeeper, Housekeeper and Embassy Staff is essential.
• May require flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays, based on the Ambassadors schedule.