Head Chef

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Head Chef leads the culinary operation at Courtyard by Marriott Penang, overseeing food preparation, kitchen standards, menus, cost control, hygiene and team performance. Candidates are expected to have substantial professional kitchen experience, ideally in a hotel or high-volume hospitality environment, with strong knowledge of food safety, menu planning, purchasing and budgeting. Leadership, creativity, organization and the ability to train and motivate a multicultural team are important. The role requires close cooperation with food and beverage, events and hotel management teams, while consistently delivering attractive, high-quality food and an excellent guest experience. Relevant culinary qualifications and knowledge of Malaysian and international cuisine would be advantageous.

About the employer

Courtyard by Marriott Penang is a contemporary business and lifestyle hotel operated under Marriott International, one of the world’s largest hospitality companies. Located in George Town, Penang, the hotel serves business travelers, leisure guests, families and events, offering accommodation, dining, meeting facilities and Marriott’s established service standards. Courtyard properties typically emphasize practical comfort, modern design, efficient service and flexible spaces for both work and relaxation. Employees benefit from working within an international hotel group that provides structured operating procedures, career development opportunities and access to global hospitality practices. The Penang location combines Marriott’s international brand expectations with the island’s diverse food culture and tourism market, making the Head Chef role suitable for an experienced culinary professional interested in leading a hotel kitchen in Malaysia.

Working in Malaysia

Penang is one of Malaysia’s best-known islands and is particularly attractive for hospitality professionals because of its hotels, restaurants, resorts, catering businesses and tourism operators. George Town is famous for UNESCO-listed heritage buildings, street art and a diverse food scene influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian and Peranakan traditions. Life is generally relaxed, affordable compared with Kuala Lumpur and convenient, with beaches, public transport, shopping and excellent local cuisine. International residents commonly live around George Town, Tanjung Tokong or Batu Ferringhi. Foreign employees normally need an employer-sponsored Employment Pass arranged through Malaysian immigration before starting work; requirements depend on nationality, qualifications and salary. Relocating staff should confirm accommodation, medical coverage, tax treatment and dependent-pass options with the employer. English is widely used in hotels, while Malay and Mandarin are also common.