Area Chef - Sushi Specialist

About Kitopi

Kitopi is a leading regional creator and collaborator in exciting culinary experiences, aiming to delight the global palate. Since its inception in Dubai in 2018, it has expanded across the UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar with over 200 locations and more than 6,000 employees. Powered by its proprietary Smart Kitchen Operating System (SKOS), Kitopi optimizes cloud kitchen operations through technological innovation, data science, AI, and robotics.

Role Overview

As the Area Chef specialized in sushi, you will oversee the culinary excellence of the sushi brand across multiple outlets, ensuring impeccable standards from fish preparation to plating.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and uphold culinary standards relating to sushi preparation including knife skills, fish handling, and presentation across all venues.
• Develop, formalize, and enforce precise recipes, portioning charts, and standard operating procedures tailored to sushi production.
• Lead training initiatives for kitchen personnel on sushi techniques, station organization, and service delivery.
• Perform regular visits and quality assessments at outlets, initiating corrective measures as required.
• Work collaboratively with the culinary and menu innovation teams designing new sushi dishes, seasonal menus, and product testing.
• Ensure adherence to food safety, allergen management, and hygiene guidelines consistent with UAE regulations.
• Assist with managing inventory, sourcing fresh fish and ingredients, and implementing waste minimization strategies.
• Coordinate with operations for controlling food costs, monitoring kitchen key performance indicators, and optimizing labor productivity.
• Prepare kitchens and teams for grand openings of new outlets, embedding brand standards from the start.

Candidate Qualifications

• Minimum of five years experience working as a Sushi Chef, including at least two years in a senior or regional capacity overseeing multiple locations.
• Advanced proficiency in Japanese culinary arts covering sushi, sashimi, maki, nigiri, and omakase style dishes.
• Expertise in fish quality assessment, sourcing practices, butchery, and appropriate handling methods.
• Proven experience in developing and mentoring kitchen teams on sushi operations and quality standards.
• Strong grasp of food cost management, waste control, and disciplined operational practices.
• A passion for delivering consistent high-quality and authentic dining experiences.
• Ability to manage responsibilities across various fast-paced and high-volume restaurant locations.

Employee Benefits and Perks

• Extensive opportunities for skill development through tailored hard and soft skill workshops provided by Kitopi Academy.
• Work in a culturally diverse, internationally inclusive environment.
• Possibility to be part of a supportive and caring community.
• Unlimited complimentary access to a professional nutritionist for healthy lifestyle support.
• Causal dress code policy (subject to terms and conditions).
• Regular team-building activities and social events filled with entertainment.
• Comprehensive private health insurance coverage.
• Discounts up to 50% on Kitopi brand products.
• Annual leave policy in accordance with company standards.
• Flexible working arrangements facilitating a healthy work-life balance.
• Wellness areas designed to support mothers and promote inclusivity.
• Monthly wellness initiatives aimed at improving mental and physical wellbeing.
• Educational webinars designed to empower personal and professional growth.
• Social gatherings on Thursdays and Fridays encouraging connection among colleagues across markets.

Recruitment Process

The hiring journey begins by submitting your application, followed by an evaluation by the talent team. Suitable candidates receive an invitation to schedule an introductory call. Subsequent interview stages with hiring managers may include case studies, scenario role-plays, trial tasks, or practical assessments. The recruitment cycle is typically completed within two to three weeks.

Inclusion and Diversity

Kitopi is committed to equal opportunity employment. With a workforce of over 70 nationalities, the company welcomes applicants at all career stages including seasoned experts, fresh graduates, and those returning to work after a break. Kitopi fosters an environment free of discrimination, celebrating varied backgrounds and cultures.