Filia Head Chef

Company description

SLS Dubai Hotel and Residences is a luxury lifestyle 5-star city hotel which belongs to Ennismore under the wider Accor group umbrella.
Boasting 946 units, with 254 uniquely designed hotel rooms, 321 hotel apartments and 371 branded residences, spread over 75 floors, SLS Dubai is one of the tallest hotels and residences in the region.
A wondrous and striking landmark in Downtown District, designed by the award-winning architects and interior designer Paul Bishop, the SLS Dubai is a unique cabinet of curiosities that never ceases to delight.

Job description

Overview

The Head Chef is responsible for leading the culinary direction of Fi'lia, a modern Italian-Mediterranean restaurant known for its refined, female-led concept and handmade cuisine. This role requires creativity, leadership, and a deep understanding of authentic Italian flavors with a contemporary presentation.

Key responsibilities

Culinary leadership

• Design and execute innovative menus aligned with Fi'lia’s Italian-Mediterranean identity
• Maintain authenticity in handmade pastas, breads, and traditional recipes
• Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation across all dishes

Kitchen operations

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including prep, service, and hygiene
• Ensure compliance with Dubai Municipality food safety regulations
• Control food costs, wastage, and inventory

Team management

• Recruit, train, and mentor kitchen staff
• Foster a positive, high-performance kitchen culture
• Manage scheduling, performance, and staff development

Quality & guest experience

• Maintain Michelin-level standards of food quality and plating
• Collaborate with front-of-house teams to ensure seamless guest experiences
• Handle guest feedback and continuously improve offerings

Financial management

• Manage kitchen budgets and profitability targets
• Optimize supplier relationships and procurement strategies

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef or Executive Sous Chef in a luxury or fine-dining restaurant
• Strong expertise in Italian cuisine (especially handmade pasta and wood-fired cooking)
• Experience in high-volume, high-end hospitality environments
• Leadership and team management skills
• Knowledge of food safety and HACCP standards
• Creativity and passion for modern gastronomy
• Previous experience in luxury hotel brands or internationally recognized restaurants
• Exposure to pre-opening restaurant concepts
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training
• Menu development and innovation
• Cost control and budgeting
• Team leadership
• Fine dining execution
• Supplier and inventory management
• Fast-paced, high-end restaurant within a luxury hospitality setting
• Evening and weekend shifts required
• High expectations for consistency, creativity, and leadership