Job Description

Roles & Responsibilities

Responsibilities

Pastry and Bakery Production: Oversee the preparation and production of all pastry items, including cakes, cookies, pastries, bread, and other baked goods. Ensure all recipes are followed precisely and items are produced to the highest standards in terms of taste, texture, and appearance. Create and innovate new desserts, pastries, and bakery items in line with seasonal or special event menus. Maintain consistency in quality and presentation of all baked goods. Prepare items in bulk when necessary, such as for events or special orders.

Section Management: Organize and manage the pastry section of the kitchen, ensuring all equipment, ingredients, and tools are in good working order and ready for use. Oversee the stock levels of ingredients used in pastry production, ensuring timely orders to avoid shortages. Supervise the preparation of garnishes and decorations to complement the presentation of desserts. Ensure that food safety standards and health regulations are strictly followed in the pastry section.

Creativity and Innovation: Stay updated with trends in pastry and baking, incorporating new ideas and techniques into the menu when appropriate. Work with the culinary team to develop creative and seasonal dessert menus that reflect the restaurant's concept and customer preferences. Contribute ideas for themed events or special occasions that require custom pastry and bakery products.

Team Leadership and Training: Supervise, train, and motivate junior pastry chefs or assistants within your section, ensuring they are skilled and knowledgeable in pastry techniques. Provide constructive feedback and ensure team members adhere to the kitchen s standards of hygiene, safety, and efficiency. Train junior associates in the proper preparation, decoration, and presentation of baked goods and desserts.

Quality Control: Regularly check the quality of the pastries, desserts, and baked goods before they leave the kitchen. Ensure that each dish is visually appealing and meets the standards expected by the establishment. Review and adjust recipes as needed to maintain the best quality, flavor, and consistency.

Health & Safety Compliance: Ensure that all work surfaces, equipment, and kitchen areas are kept clean and sanitized at all times. Follow proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures to prevent contamination. Ensure the pastry section adheres to all food safety, hygiene, and health regulations, including allergen management.

Inventory and Supply Management: Manage inventory for the pastry section, ensuring that all necessary ingredients and supplies are ordered in advance and stored properly. Work with the kitchen manager or purchasing team to order supplies and keep track of stock levels. Assist with inventory counts and monitor ingredient usage to minimize waste.

Collaboration: Work closely with other kitchen departments and service team, to ensure smooth operations and coordination during service. Communicate effectively with the front-of-house team to ensure that orders for desserts and pastries are delivered on time. Participate in menu planning and recipe development, contributing ideas for new pastry items or modifications to existing ones.

Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that all pastry-specific equipment is properly maintained and used correctly. Report any damaged or faulty equipment to the appropriate person for repair or replacement. Keep track of equipment usage and report when items need to be replaced or repaired.

Record Keeping and Reporting: Keep accurate records of recipes, production levels, and food safety logs for the pastry section. Report any issues related to supplies or kitchen operations to the Sous Chef or Executive Chef. Assist with budgeting and cost control in the pastry section to ensure profitability.

Additional Responsibilities Perform any other duties or responsibilities as assigned by management to support the effective operation of the department and the broader goals of the property.

Desired Candidate Profile

• Minimum of 2 years of pastry / bakery experience in supervisory culinary role, preferably in a high-end restaurant or a luxury hospitality environment.
• Culinary degree / diploma or equivalent professional training from a reputable culinary school preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of baking techniques, pastry decoration, and dessert preparation.
• Creative flair for developing and presenting new pastry items and desserts.
• Strong leadership skills to supervise and train junior pastry associates.
• Knowledge of health and safety standards, including food hygiene regulations.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Strong attention to detail, particularly in presentation and quality control.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to stand for long periods, often in a fast-paced, hot kitchen environment.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items, such as large batches of dough, baking sheets, or trays.
• Good manual dexterity to handle delicate pastry work and intricate decorations.
• Ability to work early mornings or late nights, as baking often requires shifts outside regular hours.
• Alongside these key competencies, the incumbent of the role will be required to demonstrate the fundamentals of the company's Heartist service culture to be responsive, respectful and deliver a great experience.