EXECUTIVE CHEF

Company Description

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Join a dynamic team and be part of a network of 90 spectacular properties, and 34 more in the pipeline, in 30 countries around the globe. Our properties are located from the beaches of Hawaii, to the unspoiled national parks of Canada, to the heart of London, to the deserts of the United Arab Emirates.

Fairmont Mayakoba is a luxury resort located in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, seamlessly blending tropical nature, mangroves, and white-sand beaches within an exclusive setting. Certified with the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award, it offers 401 elegant guest rooms and suites, including beachfront and lagoon casitas, all featuring world-class amenities. The resort is thoughtfully designed with respect for the natural environment and local culture, delivering a perfect balance between modern luxury and ecotourism in a paradisiacal Caribbean setting.

About the Application Process:

At Fairmont, we want to bring out your highest potential. Shortly after applying, you will receive an email from our partner AssessFirst prompting you to create a profile and complete a questionnaire. This is a mandatory step for your candidacy to be considered as it enables us to explore your compatibility with this role and our culture of luxury excellence.

Job Description

We are seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to lead our culinary operations in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. In this visionary leadership role, you will oversee all aspects of food production, menu development, and kitchen operations while maintaining the highest standards of excellence expected in luxury and ultra-luxury hospitality. You will be instrumental in creating memorable fine dining experiences for our guests, driving innovation in our culinary offerings, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing kitchen team. This is an opportunity to showcase your culinary expertise and leadership prowess in a dynamic, customer-focused environment.

• Oversee all food production operations across multiple fine dining venues, banquet functions, and stewarding departments while introducing innovative culinary methods and techniques consistent with luxury hospitality standards
• Develop and execute creative, market-driven fine dining menus that reflect current culinary trends, fine dining excellence, and cater to the diverse preferences of our discerning guest base and local market
• Lead, mentor, and develop kitchen staff through training, performance management, and fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement aligned with ultra-luxury service standards
• Maintain rigorous food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards in compliance with international best practices and local regulatory requirements, with particular attention to fine dining protocols
• Manage kitchen budgets, control food costs, and optimize operational efficiencies while maintaining the highest quality standards expected in luxury hotel environments
• Analyze competitive market trends and guest feedback to identify opportunities for culinary innovation and differentiation within the luxury and ultra-luxury segment
• Serve as a key ambassador for the organization, building strong relationships with guests, vendors, and external stakeholders while upholding professional ethics and transparency; communicate effectively in both English and Spanish with guests, staff, and partners
• Collaborate with hotel management and other departments to ensure seamless coordination of special events, promotions, and guest experiences in accordance with luxury hospitality standards
• Implement sustainable practices and drive operational improvements across all kitchen functions while maintaining fine dining excellence

Qualifications

• Minimum 10-12 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 2-3 years in an Executive Chef or similar senior leadership role
• Proven expertise in food production operations, menu development, and kitchen management across multiple dining concepts
• Strong culinary knowledge encompassing international cuisines, contemporary cooking techniques, and current food trends
• Exceptional leadership and organizational skills with the ability to recruit, train, and motivate high-performing kitchen teams
• Creative and visionary mindset with a perfectionist approach to detail and a commitment to culinary excellence
• Excellent communication and public relations skills with the ability to engage effectively with guests, staff, and external partners
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on driving operational efficiencies and cost optimization
• Demonstrated expertise in food safety, hygiene standards, and regulatory compliance
• Entrepreneurial thinking with the ability to innovate, think outside the box, and drive positive change
• Proficiency in budget management, vendor relations, and kitchen equipment knowledge
• Ownership mentality with the ability to take initiative, expand responsibilities, and deliver results
• Pre-opening or new concept development experience is a distinct advantage
• Formal culinary training or recognized culinary certification is preferred
• Flexibility and resilience to adapt to a dynamic, fast-paced hospitality environment
• Inclusive and empathetic leadership approach that values collaboration and team development

Additional Information

Employee Benefits:
Join our team and enjoy a range of exclusive colleague perks, including complimentary upgrades, extended stays, discounted stays across Fairmont & Raffles properties, special dining and wellness discounts, and added luxuries to enhance your experience. We believe in taking care of our team, ensuring that your hard work is rewarded with exceptional benefits. 

Our Values

Respect:
We value the needs, ideas and individuality of others. We treat everyone with fairness and dignity. 

Excellence:
We make genuine connections, and we cherish every opportunity to make the people around us feel special.​

Belonging:
We celebrate our differences. We support each other and we always stand together.​

Empowerment:
We have authority to take initiative and anticipate moments that create unforgettable experiences. ​

Integrity:
We build trust through mutual respect and being authentic.​

Diversity & Inclusion

Fairmont is committed to creating an inclusive environment where diverse talent thrives. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join our team.