Are you a passionate culinary professional with a drive to lead in one of the world’s most picturesque destinations? Velassaru Maldives is seeking an Executive Chef to lead its exceptional culinary team. Located in the serene South Malé Atoll, Velassaru offers an exciting career path in a luxury island setting where creativity meets precision and experience meets innovation.
About Velassaru Maldives
Velassaru Maldives is an award-winning luxury resort that delivers a modern interpretation of classic Maldivian elegance. With the mantra of "Luxury Undressed," Velassaru offers understated sophistication, impeccable service, and contemporary tropical aesthetics that harmonize beautifully with the island’s natural beauty.
Just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Velassaru combines convenience with escape. The resort features a collection of beach and water villas, many with private pools, along with a wide range of facilities including five fine-dining restaurants, two chic bars, a serene spa, and vibrant recreational experiences—from snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons to private sunset cruises. Guests from around the globe come here for a peaceful retreat, and as part of the Velassaru team, you’ll be at the heart of creating exceptional experiences.
Executive Chef – Key Position Overview
We are now hiring a highly experienced, motivated, and innovative Executive Chef to oversee the entire culinary operation of Velassaru Maldives. This role is pivotal to maintaining and enhancing the resort's reputation for delivering sophisticated dining experiences across multiple outlets.
The Executive Chef will take the lead in menu development, culinary innovation, kitchen operations, staff management, and ensuring excellence in food quality and presentation. You will collaborate closely with the Food & Beverage and resort leadership teams to ensure that all culinary offerings are aligned with Velassaru’s brand standards and guest expectations.
Key Responsibilities
As the Executive Chef, your primary responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
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Kitchen Operations & Planning
Direct the day-to-day operations of all culinary outlets, including restaurant kitchens, room service, banquet services, and staff cafeterias. Ensure all food production meets the resort’s standards of excellence and consistency. -
Menu Development
Create, design, and regularly update menus for all culinary outlets. Focus on innovative dishes using fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients. Ensure a balance between international appeal and Maldivian authenticity. -
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, train, and inspire the culinary team. Foster a collaborative work environment with a strong focus on professionalism, equality, and performance. Evaluate staff skills, identify training needs, and ensure continuous development. -
Cost & Budget Management
Develop and manage culinary budgets, monitor food cost, portion control, and kitchen efficiency. Implement strategies to improve profitability while maintaining the highest food quality. -
Quality Assurance & Hygiene
Enforce food safety protocols and sanitation standards across all culinary operations. Ensure compliance with local and international food safety regulations. -
Strategic Culinary Planning
Provide strategic input on culinary trends and business planning. Collaborate with the senior management team to align culinary initiatives with guest preferences, resort goals, and sustainability targets. -
Supplier & Inventory Oversight
Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and oversee procurement processes. Maintain proper inventory controls and ensure optimal stock levels with minimal wastage. -
Guest Engagement
Occasionally engage with guests for feedback and special dining experiences. Ensure guest satisfaction through personalized culinary moments and consistently high-quality dishes.
Required Qualifications
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following requirements:
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Experience:
Minimum of 5 to 8 years of experience in a similar role within the culinary department of a luxury resort or five-star hotel. -
Leadership Skills:
Proven ability to lead and manage a diverse team with strong organizational and interpersonal skills. You must be comfortable managing multicultural teams and high-pressure environments. -
Financial Acumen:
Proficiency in food cost management, budgeting, and analyzing financial reports to ensure optimal resource utilization and cost control. -
Culinary Knowledge:
Comprehensive understanding of international cuisines, fine dining standards, and creative menu design. Familiarity with modern cooking techniques and global culinary trends. -
Food Safety:
Solid knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices. Certification in HACCP or equivalent food safety programs is a plus. -
Communication:
Fluency in written and spoken English is essential. Additional language skills will be considered an advantage.
Velassaru’s Culinary Landscape
Velassaru is renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings. From freshly caught seafood and tropical ingredients to gourmet international fare, our restaurants cater to a global palate. The Executive Chef will have the opportunity to oversee the following dining experiences:
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Vela – Main restaurant with international buffets and live cooking stations.
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Etesian – A refined venue for Mediterranean and Latin American cuisine.
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Teppanyaki – Over-water dining featuring live Japanese grill cooking.
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Turquoise – Asian-European fusion served with an ocean view.
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Sand – Beachfront fine dining with a romantic setting under the stars.
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Fen Bar & Chill Bar – Stylish venues offering drinks, small bites, and music.
Application Process
If you are ready to bring your expertise to an inspiring island setting and contribute to a renowned brand, we invite you to apply for the Executive Chef position at Velassaru Maldives.
How to Apply:
Scan the QR Code provided on the official job flyer, or send your updated resume with a recent photograph to:
Application Deadline: Saturday, 31st May 2025
Please note: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further steps in the recruitment process.
