Job Summary 

Iniala is a luxury hospitality brand renowned for its commitment to culinary excellence, innovation, and outstanding guest experiences. With award-winning properties across multiple locations, we deliver exceptional dining experiences that showcase creativity, precision, and uncompromising quality.

We are currently seeking a dedicated and talented Head Chef to lead the culinary operations of our brand-new restaurant concept in Malta, Anaala by Ian Kittichai. This role is more than a job. It is a unique opportunity to lead a signature restaurant from its inception and elevate a career within a prestigious brand.

The ideal candidate is an accomplished culinary leader with a strong background in high-end or fine-dining operations. They consistently deliver exceptional food quality, inspire and mentor kitchen teams, and demonstrate impeccable attention to detail.

Duties & Responsibilities: 

Pre-Opening Responsibilities

Lead the culinary pre-opening process, ensuring all kitchen systems, structures, and standards are in place ahead of launch.
Coordinate with project teams, contractors, and suppliers to finalise the layout, equipment specifications, and operational readiness of the kitchen.
Recruit, onboard, and train kitchen staff, ensuring all team members are aligned with the restaurant’s standards, culture, and vision.
Develop kitchen workflows, standard operating procedures, mise en place systems, and production schedules to ensure efficient and seamless service from day one.
Collaborate with the Chef Patron and his team on tastings, menu refinement, recipe documentation, and plating guides.
Establish supplier relationships and oversee the sourcing of premium ingredients required for launch.
Conduct all necessary food safety, hygiene, and operational compliance checks prior to opening.

Operational Responsibilities

Lead and inspire the kitchen team to consistently deliver exceptional dishes that exceed guest expectations and reflect the restaurant’s culinary identity.
In conjunction with the Chef Patron, contribute to innovative and seasonally inspired menus that showcase the finest ingredients, flavours, and techniques while adhering to brand standards.
Oversee kitchen operations, including food procurement, inventory management, and cost control, to optimise efficiency and profitability while maintaining the highest quality.
Actively participate in the food preparation process as required.
Ensure all kitchen equipment and tools are in excellent working condition, coordinating servicing and repairs when necessary.
Implement and enforce rigorous food safety and sanitation protocols to ensure full compliance with health regulations.
Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff, fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Collaborate closely with the restaurant management team on menu planning, special events, and other culinary initiatives to ensure seamless execution and outstanding guest satisfaction.
Stay informed of industry trends, culinary developments, and market movements to ensure the restaurant remains competitive and innovative.
Carry out other related duties as required from time to time.

Qualifications & Experience 

Proven experience as a Head Chef in a Michelin star or fine dining restaurant, demonstrating a track record of culinary excellence and leadership.
In possession of a culinary degree or equivalent certification from a recognised culinary institution.
Extensive knowledge of classical and contemporary culinary techniques, ingredients and cuisines, with a passion for pushing the boundaries of gastronomy and creativity.
Strong organisational and managerial skills, with the ability to effectively lead and motivate a diverse team in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to collaborate effectively with colleagues at all levels and provide exceptional service to guests.
Proficiency in menu development, food costing and kitchen management software is a plus.
A valid Food Handling B certificate is considered an advantage; however, candidates who do not yet have one will receive full support to obtain it.
Required to work evenings, weekends and Public Holidays.

Lifestyle & Career Benefits

At Iniala Valletta, exceptional experiences begin with exceptional people — and our team says the same.

We are proud to be recognised with the Employee-Approved Workplace Certification by Talexio, a distinction based on the real experiences of our people.

When you join our team, you will enjoy a wide range of benefits designed to support your well-being, growth, and career development.

These include:

Opportunity to work alongside internationally recognised chef Ian Kittichai
Competitive salary package including monthly service charge on top of the basic salary.
Private health insurance
Healthy Minds Work programme in collaboration with the Richmond Foundation, offering free emotional support and therapy sessions.
Complementary meals provided during shifts.
State-of-the-art employee quarters for your comfort, featuring showers, changing rooms, lockers, a kitchen and lounging area.
Complementary transport home after late-night shifts
Complementary laundry service for your uniforms
Sponsorship of work permit costs.
High-quality training and development programmes to enhance your skills.
A commitment to sustainability and supporting charitable initiatives, giving you the opportunity to actively participate in and drive positive change.
Exciting opportunities for career growth and progression within our global network of restaurants and hotels.
A diverse and inclusive environment where everyone is valued.

Iniala Valletta

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