We are seeking a highly skilled and passionate Italian Chef to lead our bakery division. This is not a baker's position , but a culinary leadership role focused on developing, executing, and innovating authentic Italian-inspired bakery items including breads, pastries, and desserts - with fine-dining standards of flavor, quality, and presentation.
The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of Italian culinary heritage , mastery of bakery-related techniques, and the creativity to elevate traditional recipes into memorable experiences for our customers.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and execute an authentic Italian bakery menu , featuring premium breads ( focaccia, ciabatta, grissini ), pastries ( cannoli, cornetti, sfogliatella ), and desserts ( tiramisu, crostata, panna cotta ).
Design and innovate new items blending Italian tradition with modern culinary techniques.
Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations for the bakery section - ensuring product consistency, quality control, and adherence to food safety standards.
Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff on Italian recipes, plating standards, and preparation methods.
Collaborate with management on seasonal offerings, menu engineering, and cost control.
Ensure compliance with Canadian food safety and hygiene standards (HACCP / CFIA).
Source and maintain relationships with premium suppliers for authentic Italian ingredients.
Requirements
Diploma or degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent from a recognized institution.
5 7 years of experience as an Italian Chef, with proven expertise in bakery-style culinary operations (not limited to baking).
Deep understanding of Italian cuisine - regional specialties, techniques, and presentation styles.
Strong leadership, team management, and time management skills.
Ability to balance creativity with operational efficiency.
Excellent communication and organization skills.
Preferred Experience
Prior experience in a premium bakery caf , Italian restaurant , or hotel kitchen .
Familiarity with both traditional and modern Italian baking techniques .
Exposure to North American hospitality standards is an asset.
Experience training multicultural teams in a high-performance kitchen environment.
Compensation
Competitive salary based on experience, plus benefits and performance incentives.