Area Chef - Sushi

About Kitopi

Kitopi is a leading creator and partner for exceptional food experiences in the region. Founded in Dubai in 2018, Kitopi operates a mix of proprietary and franchised food and beverage brands and supports growth both in delivery and dine-in segments. With its proprietary Smart Kitchen Operating System (SKOS), Kitopi leverages technology to optimize cloud kitchen operations. Now a unicorn with significant backing from the Softbank Group, Kitopi employs over 6,000 people across more than 200 locations in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, with engineering and customer experience hubs in Poland and Jordan.

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee the sushi brand's culinary quality across all outlet locations, ensuring excellence in techniques such as fish preparation, knife skills, plating, and presentation.
• Create, document, and enforce precise recipes, portion controls, and standard operating procedures unique to sushi production.
• Provide training and mentorship to kitchen staff on sushi-specific skills, efficient station organization, and service quality.
• Perform routine visits to outlets to conduct quality audits and implement corrective measures as needed.
• Collaborate closely with culinary and recipe development teams to innovate new sushi dishes, seasonal menu items, and product testing.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety standards, allergen management, and hygiene regulations in accordance with UAE guidelines.
• Support inventory supervision, sourcing of fish and other ingredients, and initiatives to minimize food waste.
• Work hand-in-hand with operations personnel focusing on food cost management, kitchen performance metrics, and labor efficiency.
• Lead preparations and team training for new outlet openings, embedding brand standards from the outset.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience as a sushi chef, including at least 2 years in a senior or multi-outlet supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of Japanese culinary methods including sushi, sashimi, maki, nigiri, and omakase.
• Expertise in fish selection, handling, butchery, and quality control.
• Experienced in developing and training kitchen teams on sushi-specific culinary standards.
• Strong understanding of controlling food costs, reducing waste, and maintaining operational discipline.
• A passionate commitment to delivering quality, consistency, and authentic diner experiences.
• Ability to adapt and operate efficiently across numerous locations in fast-paced, high-volume environments.

Benefits and Perks

• Robust learning and development opportunities including hard and soft skills enhancement through tailored workshops via the Kitopi Academy.
• A diverse and inclusive international workplace culture.
• Access to a supportive community with available nutritionist services.
• Flexible dress code policies (conditions apply).
• Engaging team-building activities and social events.
• Inclusive private health insurance coverage.
• Up to 50% discounts on Kitopi brand products.
• Annual leave aligned with company policy.
• Flexible working schedules to promote work-life balance.
• Wellness amenities designed specifically for mothers and inclusive for all employees.
• Monthly programs focusing on holistic well-being, mental and physical health.
• Educational webinars aimed at personal and professional growth.
• Regular social gatherings across various markets to foster employee connection.

Recruitment Process

Applicants will first have their profiles reviewed by the talent acquisition team. Suitable candidates will be invited to schedule a convenient conversation with a recruiter to discuss background and suitability. Shortlisted candidates will meet with hiring managers and may undergo 2-3 interview rounds, possibly involving case studies, role plays, trial tasks, or other relevant assessments. Offers follow successful completion of all rounds, with the process typically completed within 2-3 weeks.

Company Values and Inclusion

Kitopi values creating a workplace where all employees feel safe, included, and truly part of the community. With more than 70 nationalities represented, Kitopi maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against racism, bigotry, and hate. The company encourages applications from seasoned professionals, recent graduates, and those returning to work after a break, embracing diversity and inclusion at all levels.