Head Chef-Kathleen's Kitchen, Management Level

Location: On site / Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
job type: Permanent / Full-time
Sector and subsector: Hospitality Chefs
Salary: Negotiable salary

Afive-star career awaits at Carton House.

We invite you to begin your next career chapter at Carton House - a storied and dynamic five-star resort destination and the first and only member of the Fairmont Hotel collection in Ireland.

Nurturing a working environment built on fairness, inclusivity, and growth for all team members, we deliver the highest standard of service, turning moments into memories for all of our guests.

We are currently recruiting a HeadChef to join our culinary team in Kathleen's Kitchen at Carton House.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the daily kitchen operations of Kathleen's Kitchen, ensuring smooth and efficient service at all times.
• Work collaboratively with the Executive Head Chef on menu planning, seasonal offerings, and culinary development.
• Create and deliver high-quality dishes with consistency, creativity, and attention to presentation.
• Train and develop junior chefs and kitchen staff to support progression and continuous improvement.
• Monitor food quality, portion control, and waste management to maximize profitability and efficiency.
• Ensure full compliance with HACCP, food hygiene, health & safety, and sanitation standards.
• Conduct regular quality checks on ingredients, preparation methods, and finished dishes.
• Assist with stock control, ordering, supplier management, and inventory procedures.
• Work closely with front-of-house teams to ensure a seamless guest dining experience.
• Support recruitment, scheduling, and performance management within the kitchen team.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organization, and kitchen presentation.
• Ensure all company standards, policies, and luxury hospitality expectations are consistently upheld.

Key Requirements

• Minimum 12-15 years' culinary experience within high-volume or luxury hospitality environments.
• Previous experience in a Head Chef or senior leadership culinary role.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• A high level of culinary creativity and passion for exceptional food.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• Strong understanding of HACCP and food safety regulations.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality and consistency.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including early and late shifts.
• Excellent command of the English language.
• Professional culinary qualification required.
• Strong personal presentation and professionalism.

Why work for Carton House, a Fairmont managed Hotel?

• To be part of Accor's large global hospitality network.
• Employee benefit card offering discounted rates in Accor Hotels worldwide.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Refer a friend bonus €250.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Strong team focus and team atmosphere.
• Meals and uniform are provided.
• Free parking.
• Team-building and social events organised throughout the year in line with our successful Awards and Recognition Scheme.
• Training is provided both on-the-job and through organised training seminars with both internal and external trainers.