Job Description
Main Function
- The Head of Food is responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership for all food-related operations across the organization.
- The role oversees food production, kitchen operations, food quality, hygiene standards, menu development, cost control, and team performance to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality food products that meet customer expectations and business objectives.
- The ideal candidate must be an experienced food professional with strong leadership, operational, and commercial skills, capable of managing multi-outlet food operations while maintaining excellence in quality, safety, and profitability.
Role Responsibilities
Food Operations Leadership:
- Oversee all food production and kitchen operations across outlets.
- Ensure consistency in food quality, taste, presentation, and portion control.
- Coordinate daily kitchen activities to support smooth service delivery.
- Ensure compliance with approved recipes, menus, and food standards.
Menu Development and Innovation:
- Develop, review, and update menus in line with market trends and customer preferences.
- Introduce new food concepts and improve existing offerings.
- Standardize recipes and ensure accurate costing of all menu items.
- Collaborate with marketing and operations teams on promotions and product launches.
Quality Control and Food Safety:
- Enforce strict food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
- Ensure compliance with HACCP, health regulations, and internal quality standards.
- Conduct routine kitchen inspections and quality audits.
- Ensure proper handling, storage, and preparation of food items.
Cost Control and Profitability:
- Monitor food costs, wastage, and portion control to achieve cost targets.
- Work with procurement and inventory teams to optimize sourcing and stock levels.
- Analyze food cost reports and implement corrective measures where required.
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance of food operations.
Team Leadership and Development:
- Lead, mentor, and supervise executive chefs, kitchen managers, and food teams.
- Identify training needs and implement capacity-building programs.
- Set performance standards and conduct regular appraisals.
- Foster a culture of discipline, teamwork, and excellence in food operations.
Operational Planning and Coordination:
- Coordinate with operations, procurement, and facility teams for smooth kitchen operations.
- Ensure availability and proper maintenance of kitchen equipment.
- Support outlet openings, renovations, and operational upgrades.
Customer Experience:
- Ensure food offerings meet customer expectations in quality, taste, and presentation.
- Address food-related customer complaints and implement corrective actions.
- Monitor customer feedback and satisfaction levels.
Reporting and Administration:
- Prepare operational and performance reports for food operations.
- Track KPIs such as food cost percentage, wastage, quality compliance, and customer satisfaction.
- Maintain accurate documentation and operational records.
Experience / Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree or HND in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, Food Science, or related discipline
- Minimum of 5 – 8 years experience in food operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role
- Proven experience managing multi-outlet or high-volume food operations
- Professional culinary certifications and food safety training are an added advantage.
Skills:
- Strong leadership and kitchen management skills
- Deep knowledge of food production, culinary standards, and kitchen operations
- Strong understanding of food costing, budgeting, and cost control
- Excellent organizational and planning abilities
- Knowledge of food safety regulations and hygiene standards
- Effective communication and team management skills
- Creative and innovative mindset.
Behavioural Qualities / Other Competences:
- High level of professionalism and integrity
- Detail-oriented and quality-focused
- Proactive and results-driven
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple outlets
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Passion for food excellence and continuous improvement.