Chef & Residence Manager (CHEG26-014693) - Temporary Cover

Who are we?

The UK Mission in Geneva represents the interests and policies of the UK at international organisations. We are now looking for a temporary Chef & Residence Manager to support the smooth running of the Ambassador’s Residence for an expected period of three months.

The UK Mission in Geneva prioritises dignity and respect at work. We value respect, inclusiveness, empowerment, teamwork and kindness.

Main Purpose of Role

The Ambassador’s Residence is a unique and high-profile workplace. It is a prestigious venue used by the Ambassador and the Mission to host official functions, including breakfasts, lunches, dinners and large receptions. It also includes guest rooms used for official visits and is the private home of the Ambassador and their family.

The Chef & Residence Manager will play a key role in ensuring the Residence runs smoothly and is maintained to high standards. The successful candidate will plan menus, prepare high-quality food, support the delivery of official events, maintain records and accounts, and help ensure that the Residence is clean, well-presented, well-stocked and operational.

Roles and Responsibilities

Chef Responsibilities

• Devise menus and cater for all official events at the Ambassador’s Residence and the Mission, including breakfasts, lunches, dinners, receptions and informal events, preparing food in line with the objectives and budget of each event or occasion;
• Interpret event requirements, guest preferences and dietary needs, and translate them into creative, high quality menus;
• Apply knowledge of special dietary restrictions and prepare suitable alternatives;
• Organise the purchase of food and drink supplies from local suppliers, planning ahead according to season, availability, quality and value for money;
• Maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness and organisation. Store equipment and leftovers appropriately;
• Ensure compliance with food hygiene, health & safety, and sanitation standards;
• Ensure correct use and care of kitchen equipment and report maintenance issues when required;
• Keep clear and timely accounts, including receipts and records of official expenditure;
• Liaise with contractors and casual staff when required to support events;
• Occasionally prepare meals for the Ambassador's family and keep accounts of personal spend.

Scope and level of Residence Manager responsibilities to be determined on arrival depending on candidate experience and business need, but may include:

• Ensure the smooth running of the Ambassador’s Residence, maintaining the highest standards of service and presentation;
• Oversee the use of the Residence for official entertainment and the accommodation of senior official visitors.
• Ensure effective delivery of services and maintenance of all Residence property, managing accounts and purchasing;
• Purchase and manage stocks for the Residence. Work with the Residence staff to ensure stocks and supplies are maintained and supervise deliveries where needed;
• Manage a team of three Residence staff, and when required casual event staff, providing support and direction as necessary.

Perform additional tasks as directed by the Ambassador or Mission management.

Essential qualifications, skills and experience

• At least two years' experience as a chef or cook in a professional hospitality, catering, restaurant, residence or events environment, with a strong commitment to delivering high-quality food and excellent customer service;
• Good working proficiency in French, written and spoken, minimum B2 level according to the CEFR framework*;
• Experience planning menus and preparing high-quality food in line with event requirements, guest preferences and dietary needs;
• Good knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards and allergen management;
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and competing priorities under pressure;
• Strong attention to detail and pride in maintaining high standards of service, presentation and cleanliness;
• Confident, discreet and trustworthy, with the ability to work effectively without close supervision;
• Ability to work well as part of a small team and support colleagues flexibly when required;
• Flexibility in working hours and duties, including willingness to work additional hours in support of events, including evenings and occasional weekends;
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office tools, including Outlook, Word and Excel.

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience

• Experience working in a high-end hospitality, diplomatic, international organisation or similar VIP setting;a