Head Pastry Chef

About the Role

Sheen Falls Lodge is seeking a Head Pastry Chef to lead and inspire its pastry kitchen. This position demands hands-on expertise in pastry creation and management, particularly within a luxury 5-star fine dining environment that adheres to Michelin Guide standards. The role involves collaboration with the Executive Chef to design and deliver exceptional pastry menus for the Falls fine dining restaurant, afternoon teas, and the Sheen Lounge, emphasizing precision and creativity.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the highest standards of hygiene and presentation through compliance with HACCP, kitchen cleanliness, uniform codes, and staff grooming.
• Manage and enhance food quality consistently across the pastry section while meeting cost controls and budgets.
• Lead and develop pastry team members, fostering teamwork and professional growth.
• Oversee food production and service, ensuring excellent dining experiences for guests.
• Implement effective processes, procedures, systems, and service controls to continually improve quality and menu offerings.
• Maintain strict adherence to health, safety, and regulatory requirements including HACCP standards.

Qualifications and Skills

• Demonstrated expert knowledge in pastry arts, bread making, and patisserie preparation.
• Proven experience in a similarly prestigious fine dining setting of at least 5 years, preferably within a Michelin-standard kitchen.
• Strong leadership capabilities to manage kitchen teams while inspiring creativity and professionalism.
• Excellent communication skills, flexibility, organization, and problem-solving aptitude.
• Competencies in teamwork, strategic thinking, planning, financial management, and customer service orientation focused on internal stakeholders.

Additional Information

• Flexible and adaptable approach to work, including weekends and evening shifts.
• Opportunity suitable for senior pastry chefs or sous chefs aiming to advance their careers.
• Commitment to sourcing local fresh ingredients and upholding hotel standards.
• Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in Ireland without restrictions.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Meals provided during shifts.
• Employee parking and uniforms supplied.
• Comprehensive training programs.
• Discounts at Sheen Falls Lodge and sister hotels across Cork, Dublin, and Wicklow.
• Recognition awards and special appreciation days.
• Access to facilities including free golf at Ring of Kerry Golf Club and an employee gym.
• Participation in Cycle to Work scheme.
• Rewards and celebrations for work anniversaries, birthdays, and employee referrals.