About Company
De Santos Hotel is a distinguished name in the hospitality sector, known for delivering unparalleled guest experiences through exceptional service, elegant accommodations, and exquisite dining. Situated in the vibrant heart of Lagos, we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and sophisticated environment for both our local and international guests. Our commitment to culinary excellence is a cornerstone of our brand, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, innovative menus, and impeccable presentation. We believe in fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment where talent is nurtured, and creativity is celebrated. Join a team dedicated to setting new standards in luxury hospitality and making every guest’s stay memorable.
Job Description
Are you an exceptionally talented and visionary culinary professional with a profound passion for creating unforgettable dining experiences? De Santos Hotel, a distinguished name in the Surulere hospitality landscape, is seeking an Executive Chef to lead our hotel catering and executive kitchen operations. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned culinary leader to shape the gastronomic direction of our renowned establishment, known for its elegant ambiance, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to exceptional service.
As our Executive Chef, you will be the absolute driving force behind our culinary excellence, overseeing all aspects of our kitchen and catering services. This pivotal role involves not only the strategic planning, development, and flawless execution of our diverse menus, but also the meticulous management and inspirational leadership of our entire kitchen staff. You will be responsible for ensuring every single dish that leaves our kitchen, whether for our à la carte restaurant, room service, or a large-scale event, consistently meets and exceeds the highest standards of taste, presentation, quality, and hygiene. Your innovative spirit will be key in developing and enhancing our food offerings, from delectable daily breakfast spreads and sophisticated lunch options to exquisite dinner menus and bespoke banquet experiences, ensuring a consistently superior guest experience that delights and surprises.
We are looking for someone who can truly inspire, mentor, and develop a team of dedicated chefs, cooks, and kitchen assistants, fostering a vibrant culture of creativity, collaboration, efficiency, and continuous professional growth. Your expertise in managing complex kitchen budgets, optimizing inventory levels to minimize waste and maximize profitability, and implementing robust, industry-leading food safety and sanitation protocols will be absolutely crucial to our operational efficiency and overall success. You will work closely and collaboratively with our Food & Beverage Manager, event planners, and procurement team to conceptualize, design, and deliver tailored culinary solutions for our diverse clientele, making every occasion, whether a high-profile business luncheon, a grand wedding reception, or an intimate private dinner, a truly memorable culinary journey.
This demanding yet highly rewarding role requires a leader who is not only a master of various classical and contemporary culinary techniques and proficient in a wide array of international cuisines but also possesses an acute understanding of local Nigerian preferences, seasonal ingredients, and emerging global food trends. Your creative flair and innovative approach will be instrumental in developing new, exciting dishes and themed menus that reflect contemporary gastronomic excellence while maintaining the classic elegance and refined quality that De Santos Hotel is celebrated for. Join our dynamic team and play a vital role in upholding and elevating our esteemed reputation for culinary excellence, making a significant contribution to the vibrant and growing hospitality scene of Surulere, Lagos. We offer a platform for you to leave your unique culinary legacy.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all culinary operations for the hotel’s main kitchen, restaurant, room service, and catering events.
- Develop innovative and seasonal menus, incorporating local and international cuisines, catering to diverse guest preferences.
- Oversee food preparation, cooking techniques, portion control, and presentation to ensure the highest quality and consistency.
- Manage kitchen staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, performance evaluations, and fostering a positive team environment.
- Control food and labor costs by optimizing inventory, reducing waste, and implementing efficient kitchen processes.
- Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards and regulations.
- Collaborate with the Food & Beverage Manager and sales team to plan and execute successful catering events and special promotions.
- Maintain kitchen equipment and cleanliness, ensuring a safe and organized working environment.
- Stay updated on culinary trends, new techniques, and competitor offerings to ensure De Santos Hotel remains at the forefront of dining experiences.
- Handle guest feedback regarding food quality and presentation professionally and efficiently.
Required Skills
- Exceptional culinary expertise across a range of cuisines (local and international).
- Proven leadership and team management abilities in a high-volume kitchen setting.
- Strong understanding of food cost control, inventory management, and budgeting.
- In-depth knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and sanitation regulations.
- Creativity and innovation in menu development and food presentation.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Proficiency in kitchen management software (advantageous).
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or higher diploma in Culinary Arts or Hospitality Management.
- Certification from a recognized culinary institution.
- Experience in 4-star or 5-star hotel environments.
- Specialization in specific high-end cuisines or pastry arts.
- Demonstrable portfolio of culinary creations and menu development.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive health insurance package.
- Pension contributions.
- Complimentary meals on duty.
- Opportunities for professional development and culinary training.
- Dynamic and supportive work environment.
- Employee discounts on hotel services.
- Opportunity to work with high-quality ingredients and modern kitchen equipment.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume highlights your culinary experience, leadership roles, and any relevant certifications. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the De Santos Hotel family.