Head Chef – R&D (Hospitality)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Head Chef – R&D to lead culinary innovation for a reputed restaurant group in Kuwait. The role combines product development, recipe standardisation and team leadership to deliver new menu concepts.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development of innovative food products and concepts.
• Research emerging food trends and evaluate commercial potential.
• Develop new products based on management and corporate briefs.
• Standardise recipes for mass production while maintaining consistency.
• Prepare recipe cards, shelf‑life charts and full documentation.
• Conduct culinary audits, branch training programmes and recipe audits post‑launch.
• Coordinate with the Central Production Unit and branches to establish standardised production processes.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Track KPIs, conduct market surveys and competitor analysis.
• Coach, mentor and manage the culinary team performance.

Required profile

• Minimum 7–8 years of experience in a culinary R&D or product/menu development role.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Catering Science or Culinary Arts.

Required skills

• Culinary R&D
• Product development
• Menu development
• Recipe standardisation
• Food safety compliance

What we offer

• Attractive salary
• Benefits package