Chief Steward

Job Description

We're looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Chief Steward to join our hospitality team in Istanbul, Türkiye. In this leadership role, you will oversee all stewarding operations, ensuring exceptional cleanliness, organization, and food safety standards across our kitchen and back-of-house facilities. Reporting to the Head Chef, you will lead a dedicated team while maintaining the highest operational excellence and supporting our commitment to sustainability and workplace safety.

• Lead, inspire, and develop the stewarding team, fostering a culture of pride, accountability, and collaborative teamwork
• Oversee the cleanliness and organization of all kitchens, wash-up areas, storage facilities, and associated back-of-house spaces
• Ensure the timely supply of clean crockery, cutlery, glassware, utensils, and kitchen equipment across all outlets and events
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and workplace safety in all operations
• Ensure full compliance with HACCP, chemical-handling procedures, and all applicable health and safety regulations
• Manage cleaning schedules, deep-cleaning programs, and kitchen hygiene inspections with precision and efficiency
• Monitor stock levels and control the responsible use of chemicals, cleaning materials, and stewarding equipment
• Support waste management, recycling, and sustainability initiatives throughout the organization
• Collaborate closely with Culinary, Food & Beverage, Banqueting, Engineering, and Health & Safety teams to optimize operations
• Monitor equipment condition, arrange maintenance as required, and support the protection of organizational assets
• Support internal audits and Environmental Health inspections, ensuring prompt completion of any required actions
• Manage departmental costs effectively while maintaining the high standards expected of our operation
• Train and mentor team members to develop their skills and support their professional growth
• Respond calmly and decisively to changing business demands while maintaining quality and efficiency

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chief Steward, Assistant Chief Steward, or senior stewarding leader within a luxury hotel, resort, or high-volume hospitality operation
• Strong knowledge of kitchen hygiene, food safety standards, and HACCP requirements
• Current or recent HACCP and food safety certifications
• Demonstrated experience leading and developing diverse operational teams
• Excellent planning and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize effectively
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to consistently high standards
• Proven experience managing rotas, stock, equipment, and departmental budgets
• Solid understanding of equipment maintenance and asset protection
• Knowledge of waste management and sustainability best practices
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively across departments
• Problem-solving abilities and sound decision-making skills
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• A hands-on leadership style with genuine willingness to support daily operations
• Ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining quality and efficiency
• Cross-cultural communication skills and adaptability in an international hospitality environment
• Analytical mindset with the ability to recognize operational improvements and implement solutions