Head Chef

Description

HILLCREST
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL VACANCY

HEAD CHEF
HILLCREST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

Role Summary:
Responsible for planning, preparing and delivering high quality, nutritious and diverse meals that cater to a multicultural student and staff population. The role involves managing the kitchen team, ensuring food safety and hygiene standards, and aligning meal offerings with the school's health and wellness policies. The Head Chef also plays a key role in budgeting, inventory management and fostering a positive dining experience that supports students’ well being and learning.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities:
The Head Chef’s duties will include but are not limited to:
- Assisting the Catering Manager in the day-to-day operations of the school kitchen
- Planning, preparing, and supervising the production of nutritious, balanced meals for students and staff
- Managing food preparation schedules to ensure timely service for all school meals and events
- Ensuring full compliance with HACCP food safety standards and internal hygiene protocols
- Supervising and training kitchen staff to uphold culinary and cleanliness standards
- Supporting inventory management: ordering, stock rotation, and minimizing waste
- Assisting in menu development with attention to dietary needs, seasonal availability, and cost-effectiveness
- Overseeing kitchen cleanliness, maintenance, and adherence to health & safety regulations
- Preparing reports, checklists, and maintaining documentation related to kitchen operations
- Supporting the Catering Manager in budget planning and cost control measures
- Coordinating with suppliers and ensuring high-quality food deliveries
- Assisting with special functions, school events, and sports day catering where necessary

Person Specifications:
- A diploma or equivalent qualification in Culinary Arts, Food Production, or related field
- Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in a supervisory or head role in a volume kitchen
- Proven knowledge and application of HACCP and food safety regulations
- Previous experience working in a school, institutional, or hospitality setting preferred

Key Skills & Competencies:
- Excellent culinary and presentation skills with a passion for quality food
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with staff and students
- Solid administrative and organizational abilities
- Competent in Microsoft Excel and general computer applications
- Ability to lead, motivate, and mentor kitchen staff
- High level of integrity, responsibility, and professionalism

How to apply:
To apply for this role, please send an application letter and CV with names and contact of three referees to hillcrest.applications@braeburn.ac.ke no later than 10th August 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Braeburn International Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our students; Successful candidates will be subjected to thorough screening to ascertain suitability to work with children and will be required to provide a Certificate of Police Clearance.

A member of the Braeburn Group of Schools
hillcrest.ac.ke