Sous Chef

Join a hotel that is a member of the Accor network, whose group brings together more than 45 brands, 5,500 hotels, 10,000 restaurants and lifestyle destinations. Here, we believe in you and what you bring to the table. There are many opportunities for development and advancement. Every gesture, every smile, every action, contributes to creating a positive and memorable impact for our customers, our colleagues and also for our planet. Together, we embody the vision of responsible hospitality.

Take the opportunity to become a Heartist®, and let your heart guide you in this world where life beats faster.

We're seeking an experienced and passionate Sous Chef to join our culinary team in Kooddoo, Maldives. As Sous Chef, you'll work alongside our Executive Chef to lead kitchen operations, mentor our culinary team, and ensure every dish meets our exacting standards. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your leadership abilities, culinary creativity, and commitment to excellence in a dynamic hospitality environment.

• Lead and motivate the kitchen team, fostering a positive work environment where every team member can perform at their best, even during high-volume service periods
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef to develop menus, implement new culinary ideas, and maintain innovative approaches to food preparation
• Oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring smooth workflows, proper station organization, and efficient execution of service
• Personally prepare and cook dishes while maintaining rigorous quality control standards; verify that every plate meets our culinary excellence requirements
• Manage inventory levels and conduct regular stock checks to ensure we consistently use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients
• Implement and enforce food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols; train team members on proper food handling and safety procedures
• Communicate effectively with other departments—front-of-house, management, and service staff—to ensure seamless guest experiences
• Analyze kitchen performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions that enhance efficiency and quality
• Provide constructive feedback and coaching to kitchen staff, supporting their professional development and growth
• Maintain detailed records of food costs, portion control, and kitchen metrics to support budget management goals

• Proven experience working as a Sous Chef or in a similar kitchen leadership position within a hospitality or fine dining establishment
• Strong culinary expertise with advanced knife skills, food preparation knowledge, and proficiency in modern and traditional cooking techniques
• Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and mentor kitchen staff while maintaining high performance standards
• Exceptional attention to detail with a passion for quality and a commitment to ingredient sourcing and food excellence
• Comprehensive knowledge of food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and dietary requirements (including allergies and restrictions)
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and manage high-pressure situations
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities; capacity to assess kitchen operations and implement effective improvements
• Proven collaborative approach with strong interpersonal and communication skills across all organizational levels
• Physical stamina and ability to work extended hours in a fast-paced kitchen environment
• Flexibility and adaptability; willingness to embrace new culinary techniques and continuously evolve your skill set
• Budget management experience and understanding of food cost control and portion management
• Formal culinary training or culinary degree (preferred)
• Food safety certification or ServSafe certification (preferred)
• Experience in tropical or resort hospitality settings (preferred)

Job Title: Sous Chef (Hotel Managed)

Your team and working environment: Lead and inspire our dynamic Culinary team at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort in the stunning Gaafu Alifu Atoll, where culinary artistry, fresh authentic flavors, and gastronomic excellence lie at the heart of our resort’s guest journey. Working closely with the Executive Chef, you will oversee daily kitchen operations, maintain the highest food safety and quality standards, and mentor a talented brigade across our distinctive dining outlets. Please note that successful expatriate applicants must meet the legislative requirements for a Republic of Maldives employment approval, and applications from Maldivian nationals are highly encouraged.

Our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent.