About Company
The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with unparalleled luxury, exceptional service, and exquisite culinary experiences. As a global leader in the hospitality industry, we pride ourselves on creating memorable moments for our guests through attention to detail, personalized care, and a commitment to excellence in every facet of our operation. Our fine dining establishments are celebrated for their innovative cuisine, sophisticated ambiance, and the masterful artistry of our culinary teams. Joining The Ritz-Carlton means becoming part of a prestigious legacy, where your talent is nurtured, and your passion for perfection is celebrated. We foster an environment of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement, dedicated to setting the benchmark for luxury hospitality worldwide. We are expanding our footprint and seeking a visionary leader to elevate our culinary offerings in Markham, Ontario, upholding the distinguished standards our guests expect and deserve.
Job Description
We are seeking an exceptionally talented and highly motivated Head Chef to lead our fine dining culinary team in Markham, Ontario. This is an urgent opening for a seasoned professional ready to embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey to craft extraordinary gastronomic experiences. The Head Chef will be the creative force behind our kitchen, responsible for all culinary operations, menu development, and the consistent delivery of world-class dishes that reflect The Ritz-Carlton’s legacy of excellence. You will inspire and mentor a dedicated team of chefs and cooks, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene are maintained at all times. This role demands not only culinary artistry but also strong leadership, financial acumen, and an unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. You will manage inventory, control costs, streamline kitchen processes, and ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of luxury fine dining trends, a proven track record of innovation, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining composure and fostering a positive and productive kitchen culture. This is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to shape a culinary destination and leave a lasting impression on discerning palates. If you are a visionary chef eager to lead an elite team and define the future of fine dining, we invite you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all aspects of kitchen operations, including staff supervision, scheduling, and performance management.
- Develop innovative and seasonal fine dining menus, ensuring culinary excellence and adherence to brand standards.
- Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation to consistently meet the highest quality and aesthetic standards.
- Manage kitchen inventory, food costing, purchasing, and waste reduction to achieve financial targets.
- Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and hygiene standards in compliance with local regulations.
- Train, mentor, and develop culinary team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
- Collaborate with the Restaurant Manager and F&B Director to ensure seamless service delivery and exceptional guest experiences.
- Stay abreast of industry trends, culinary techniques, and competitor offerings to maintain a competitive edge.
- Handle guest feedback and special requests with professionalism and efficiency, ensuring satisfaction.
- Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure proper maintenance and repair schedules are followed.
Required Skills
- Minimum 7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef role in a luxury fine dining establishment.
- Exceptional culinary skills, including proficiency in various cooking techniques and global cuisines.
- Proven leadership and team management abilities, with a track record of motivating and developing culinary staff.
- Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations (HACCP certification preferred).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of interacting effectively with staff, management, and guests.
- Demonstrated financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and inventory management.
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, demanding environment while maintaining high standards.
- Creative flair and a passion for developing innovative and exquisite dishes.
Preferred Qualifications
- Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification from a recognized institution.
- Experience working with luxury hotel brands or Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Knowledge of local and seasonal Canadian produce and suppliers.
- Advanced pastry or garde manger expertise.
- Fluency in additional languages relevant to the local market.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a global luxury brand.
- Employee discounts on hotel stays, dining, and other Marriott services.
- A dynamic and supportive work environment that values creativity and excellence.
- Access to world-class culinary resources and training programs.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the qualifications are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume highlights your relevant experience in fine dining leadership and culinary innovation. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.