Mandu, Madhya Pradesh | Department : Culinary
Nimaya Resort & Spa is seeking a visionary Executive Chef to shape the culinary identity of our wellness-focused luxury retreat. If you're passionate about crafting memorable dining journeys rooted in fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques, this is your opportunity to make an impact.
JOB DESCRIPTION Culinary Leadership & Brand Alignment
- Define and articulate Nimaya's culinary vision across all touchpoints, aligning with brand values of presence, balance, sincerity, and consideration.
- Develop signature menus for diverse settings : wellness cuisine, vegetarian-led menus, live counters, chef's table evenings, weddings, offsite retreats, and seasonal high-tea rituals.
- Translate storytelling into plate presentation—using regional techniques, heirloom recipes, and mindful plating aesthetics.
Operational Management
Oversee the design, layout, and commissioning of multiple kitchens (main, satellite, banquet, show kitchen, spa café).Lead budgeting, procurement, vendor management, and cost engineering with an emphasis on sustainable sourcing and inventory control.Develop and implement comprehensive SOPs for all culinary operations including mise en place workflows, hygiene standards (FSSAI / HACCP compliance), recipe documentation, and plating standards.Team Building & People Development
Recruit, onboard, and mentor a passionate culinary brigade that shares the ethos of wellness and craft.Conduct regular training sessions on new techniques, sustainability practices, food safety, and guest-centric service.Foster an inclusive kitchen culture that values collaboration, creativity, and consistency.Pre-Opening & Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with architecture, branding, and F&B consultants on equipment planning, utility coordination, and BOH workflow optimization.Partner with design and product teams to co-create tableware, uniforms, packaging, and visual identity aligned with culinary aesthetics.Collaborate with the spa, wellness, and programming teams to develop cuisine that complements retreats, detox plans, and special wellness events.Sustainability & Innovation
Champion zero-waste kitchen practices, seasonal and local procurement models, and energy-efficient equipment usage.Incorporate slow food principles and indigenous ingredients into menu design.Contribute to Nimaya's sustainability reporting by tracking food waste, local sourcing metrics, and carbon impact from operations.Ideal Candidate Profile
8–12 years in progressive culinary roles; minimum 3 years as Executive Chef in luxury hotels, destination resorts, or wellness retreats.Deep knowledge of Indian regional cuisines and contemporary wellness trends (plant-forward, ayurvedic, gluten-free, etc.).Experience with multi-outlet F&B operations, banquet catering (up to 500 pax), and high-end guest experiences.Proficiency in BOH software (POS, inventory, recipe costing), kitchen planning, and international safety standards.Culinary degree from a reputed institution. Additional certifications in wellness cuisine or sustainable gastronomy preferred.Skills Required
Procurement, Vendor Management, Budgeting, Food Safety, cost engineering