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Executive Chef

Princess Cruises

Responsibilities

  • Lead all onboard culinary operations, ensuring every galley consistently delivers menus and dishes in line with Princess Cruises’ brand standards.
  • Oversee daily galley management, including production planning, station organization, and service execution across all food outlets.
  • Conduct regular tastings and mise-en-place inspections to verify food quality, presentation, and portion control.
  • Champion exceptional guest service by resolving all culinary-related guest feedback and complaints promptly, personally owning service recovery and documenting actions taken.
  • Ensure a wide range of menu options is consistently available for guests with special dietary requirements, and provide informed guidance on ingredients and preparation methods.
  • Drive Food & Beverage performance by meeting or exceeding culinary KPIs, proactively identifying and addressing friction points in the guest experience.
  • Use company systems and tools to plan, track, and optimize culinary production, ensuring teammates follow established recipes, standards, and procedures.
  • Collaborate with the Provision Master, Food & Beverage Storekeepers, and Hotel Inventory Manager to plan and manage provisioning, storage, and inventory in line with budget and food waste reduction targets.
  • Prepare accurate provisioning forecasts and quantity plans for local and container orders in a timely manner to prevent shortages while minimizing waste.
  • Monitor and control all culinary costs, expenditures, and inventories, ensuring alignment with budgeted targets and financial guidelines.
  • Regularly inspect provisions and key production items to validate quality, yield, and adherence to company specifications.
  • Provide visible leadership in all food outlets and public areas, maintaining a professional presence during peak service periods.
  • Lead, coach, and develop the Culinary team through ongoing training, feedback, and performance appraisals that support individual growth and career progression.
  • Communicate company updates, priorities, and operational strategies clearly to the Culinary team, using appropriate technology and hosting regular team briefings.
  • Oversee the Dish department in partnership with the Galley Supervisor, ensuring all cleaning, sanitation, and warewashing standards are consistently met.
  • Ensure all galley and dishwashing equipment is properly operated, cleaned, and maintained, escalating maintenance needs promptly.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of public health standards and ensure continuous compliance with all hotel-related health, environmental, safety, and security policies.

Key Responsibilities

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

  • Degree in Culinary Arts from a recognized culinary institution, or completion of a three-year formal culinary apprenticeship (or equivalent professional training).
  • Extensive experience in large-volume hotel, resort, or cruise ship culinary operations, including at least three years in an Executive Chef or comparable senior leadership role.
  • Proven expertise in international cuisines and advanced cooking techniques, with a strong focus on consistency, presentation, and flavor profiling.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop a large, multicultural culinary team in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
  • Strong background in Food & Beverage operations management, including menu execution, cost control, inventory management, and food waste reduction.
  • Solid understanding of food safety, sanitation, and public health regulations (e.g. USPH or equivalent), with a track record of maintaining excellent inspection results.
  • Fluent English language skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to communicate clearly and confidently with guests, teammates, and shoreside stakeholders.
  • Highly organized and calm under pressure, with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions during peak service and operational challenges.
  • Guest-centric mindset with a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences and a genuine desire to surprise and delight guests.
  • Personable, approachable communicator with excellent interpersonal skills and a warm, inclusive leadership style.
  • Proven ability to build and maintain professional, respectful working relationships within a diverse, multicultural environment.
  • Motivated, resilient, and committed to continuous improvement, professional development, and upholding Princess Cruises’ values and service standards.

Job Benefits

  • Embark on a career adventure like no other! As part of the Princess Cruises team, you’ll enjoy:
  • A competitive salary package.
  • Your own comfortable single cabin - your private space to relax and recharge.
  • Company-paid travel to and from the ship, so you can focus on the journey ahead.
  • Access to exclusive areas and benefits onboard (depending on the rank and occupational group).
  • A vibrant recreation and welfare program designed to support your well-being and work-life balance.
  • Access to exceptional learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and advance your career.
  • The chance to travel the world, exploring exciting destinations while doing what you love.
  • A welcoming, inclusive, and dynamic work environment where your contributions are valued.
  • Join us and become part of a global team that’s passionate about delivering unforgettable experiences—both for our guests and for one another.