Head Pastry Chef

About the role

Shangri-La Hotel Sydney is seeking an experienced and creative Head Pastry Chef to lead our pastry operations and take strategic responsibility for all pastry production across our luxury hotel. This is a full-time position based in Sydney NSW, where you will oversee the creation and delivery of exceptional pastry products that define our guests' culinary experiences. As Head Pastry Chef, you will combine artistry with operational excellence, managing both the technical aspects of pastry production and the team responsible for bringing these creations to life.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of pastry production, including, desserts, petit fours, signature bakery and speciality items across multiple outlets within the hotel

• Develop innovative pastry menus and seasonal offerings that align with the hotel's culinary vision and guest expectations

• Oversee the training, mentoring and performance management of pastry kitchen staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement

• Ensure consistent quality, presentation and taste standards across all pastry products and services

• Manage pastry kitchen budgets, including food costs, labour allocation and inventory control

• Source and maintain relationships with premium suppliers for speciality ingredients and materials

• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, hygiene and health regulations, ensuring full compliance with all relevant standards

• Collaborate with the Executive chefs, Outlet managers and event teams to support banqueting, room service and à la carte dining requirements

• Plan and execute speciality pastry events, celebrations and themed experiences for guests

• Implement new techniques, equipment and processes to enhance efficiency and product quality

What we're looking for

Minimum 5years' professional pastry experience, with at least 2 years in a head pastry chef role within a luxury hotel, fine dining restaurant or upscale hospitality environment

• Formal qualification in pastry arts or equivalent proven experience demonstrating mastery of classical and contemporary pastry techniques

• Advanced knowledge of bread-making, chocolate work, sugar work, plated desserts and wedding/celebration cake design

• Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to motivate, develop and inspire a team

• Excellent organisational and time management abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines

• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets effectively whilst maintaining the highest quality standards

• Comprehensive understanding of food safety, hygiene protocols and health regulations relevant to pastry production

• Creative mindset with a passion for innovation and staying current with pastry trends and techniques

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across kitchen and front-of-house teams

• Proficiency in pastry software systems and general computer literacy

• Current food handling certificate and relevant certifications in food safety

Apply now
If you are an accomplished Pastry Chef ready to lead a dynamic team in a prestigious luxury hotel setting, we would like to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your relevant experience, and any portfolio materials showcasing your pastry work to our recruitment team.