Job Title: Pastry Chef
Department: Kitchen
Reports to: Head Chef
We are seeking an experienced and innovative Senior Pastry Chef to lead our pastry section and drive excellence in dessert creation. This individual will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of pastry production, including the development of new menu items, maintaining quality and consistency and ensuring high standards of hygiene and kitchen organisation. The ideal candidate will possess a strong creative vision, exceptional technical skills, and leadership experience in a fast-paced, high-end culinary environment.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Leadership & Management:
- Lead the pastry team, providing guidance and training.
- Manage daily operations of the pastry section, ensuring smooth service and coordination with the wider kitchen team.
- Oversee the work of junior pastry chefs and apprentices, fostering a culture of learning and development.
2. Menu Development & Innovation:
- Create and refine a variety of high-quality pastries, desserts, cakes, and specialty baked goods.
- Work closely with the Head Chef to develop seasonal and event-based dessert menus.
- Stay current with pastry trends and incorporate innovative techniques and ingredients.
3. Quality Assurance:
- Maintain exceptional standards of presentation, taste, and consistency across all pastry items.
- Implement and monitor quality control measures to uphold the brand’s culinary standards.
4. Kitchen Operations & Hygiene:
- Ensure the pastry section meets all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards.
- Maintain an organised and clean working environment, overseeing proper use and maintenance of equipment.
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures for pastry production.
5. Inventory & Cost Control:
- Manage ordering, storage, and stock rotation of pastry ingredients and supplies.
- Monitor waste, portion control, and costs to contribute to overall kitchen profitability.
- Liaise with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
Key Skills & Qualifications:
- Minimum 3 years of professional experience in pastry roles, including at least 2 years in a senior or supervisory capacity.
- Mastery of classic and contemporary pastry techniques, including laminated doughs, plated desserts, chocolate work, and sugar artistry.
- Strong understanding of ingredient functions and baking science.
- Experience with recipe development and menu planning.
- Creativity, attention to detail, and passion for innovation in dessert presentation.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to multitask under pressure.
- A proactive, hands-on approach and commitment to high standards.