EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF - LUXURY CRUISE H/F M/F

Position: Executive Sous Chef – Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line

Start Date: Immediate

Rotation: 4 months on / 2 months off

Monthly Salary: USD 7,875 (net, tax-free)

Vessel Size: ≈ 1,000 guests

About the Opportunity

An award-winning cruise group celebrated for Michelin-level dining and six-star service is seeking an accomplished Executive Sous Chef. You will co-lead a multicultural brigade across multiple specialty and main-dining galleys, maintaining flawless culinary standards while the ship sails year-round itineraries in the Mediterranean, Alaska, Asia and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Leadership – Oversee day-to-day production in all galleys, ensuring consistency, presentation and taste meet luxury-brand expectations.
2. Team Management – Train, coach and schedule a brigade of 30 + chefs, demi-chefs and stewards representing more than 20 nationalities.
3. Menu Execution & Innovation – Deliver rotating fine-dining menus, tasting menus and themed events using premium, globally sourced ingredients.
4. Quality & Compliance – Guarantee HACCP, USPH and company sanitation protocols; coordinate regular inspections and crew briefings.
5. Cost Control – Track food cost, waste and inventory; collaborate with the Provision Master and Executive Chef on ordering and forecasting.
6. Succession Planning – Mentor junior leaders and prepare for promotion to Executive Chef within the line’s flagship culinary programme

Candidate Profile

1. Experience – Minimum five years in Michelin-starred, Relais & Châteaux, or comparable luxury-hotel kitchens, including at least two years as Sous Chef or higher.
2. Leadership – Proven ability to direct large, multicultural teams in a high-volume setting while preserving craft-level finesse.
3. Technical Expertise – Strong grasp of modern plating, classic techniques, allergen management and contemporary dietary trends (plant-based, gluten-free, etc.).
4. Compliance – Advanced knowledge of HACCP; comfortable with USPH or equivalent maritime standards.
5. Language – Fluent English required; French, Italian or Spanish highly advantageous.
6. Certificates & Visas – Valid STCW Basic Safety (or willingness to obtain), PEME Medical, and eligibility for a C1/D seaman’s visa.

What We Offer

1. Tax-Free Compensation – USD 7,875 per month; all onboard living expenses covered (accommodation, meals, laundry, medical).
2. Work–Life Balance – Predictable 4 : 2 rotation and paid travel to and from the vessel.
3. Career Growth – Clear pathway to Executive Chef, ongoing training with guest-chef partnerships and accredited leadership courses.
4. Global Exposure – Operate cutting-edge galleys while visiting marquee ports on five continents.
5. Inclusive Culture – Join an organisation committed to diversity, environmental stewardship and genuine guest connection.