Executive pastry chef for casual cafe

Job Description: Executive Pastry Chef OverviewA growing Italian-inspired bakery, pastry shop, and specialty coffee concept in Óbidos, Portugal is seeking a highly skilled Executive Pastry Chef to lead its pastry kitchen. The operation focuses on authentic Italian and European pastry traditions, artisanal craftsmanship, and high-end café and retail offerings. As the business expands, the Executive Pastry Chef will play a critical role in defining the creative and operational direction of the pastry program. Role SummaryThe Executive Pastry Chef will oversee the full pastry operation, including recipe development, production management, quality control, team leadership, and innovation. This role requires a refined technical foundation in traditional Italian and European pastry-making, a strong aesthetic sensibility, and the ability to translate culinary vision into consistent daily output. Key Responsibilities Lead and supervise the pastry team, ensuring highest standards in taste, texture, and presentation. Develop, test, and refine recipes for Italian-inspired pastries, desserts, and specialty items for café service and retail sales. Create seasonal pastries, plated desserts, cakes, and signature sweets aligned with the brand's culinary identity. Ensure consistent quality, visual excellence, and product integrity across the full pastry range. Oversee ingredient sourcing, inventory management, and supplier relationships to optimize quality and cost efficiency. Ensure compliance with HACCP and Portuguese food safety and hygiene regulations. Plan and manage daily and weekly production schedules for café operations and special orders. Train, mentor, and motivate junior pastry chefs to uphold operational standards and a culture of craftsmanship. Collaborate with management on menu design, new product launches, and special events. Maintain a disciplined, clean, organized pastry kitchen that reflects professional standards. Candidate Profile and Requirements Proven experience as a Head Pastry Chef or Senior Pastry Chef within a premium bakery, patisserie, or café environment. Expertise in Italian and European pastry traditions, including viennoiseries, tarts, bomboloni, choux, biscotti, semifreddo, mousse cakes, and holiday specialties such as panettone and colomba. Strong artistic sensibility with refined plating and presentation skills. Demonstrated leadership and organizational capabilities to manage people, production, and workflow. Strong understanding of pastry science, temperature control, and ingredient behavior. Solid knowledge of HACCP and industry food safety standards. Professional pastry or culinary education preferred. Strong understanding of bakery operations is a plus. Fluency in English required; Portuguese or Italian an advantage. Passion for innovation, visual craftsmanship, and authentic culinary expression. Italian nationality not required, but candidates with this background may be given preference. What the Role Offers Opportunity to lead the pastry operations of a growing Italian-inspired brand in a highly picturesque and culturally rich setting. Creative autonomy to shape menus and develop signature products that define the café's culinary identity. Supportive leadership environment within an international hospitality structure. Competitive compensation aligned with experience. Clear growth potential within the organization. Proposed Remuneration Package Monthly gross salary: €1500–€2000 Annual holiday allowance and Christmas allowance Shared accommodation in a team apartment LocationÓbidos, Portugal Job Type: Full-time Pay: 1,500.00€ - 2,000.00€ per month Application Question(s): Do you know how to work with sourdough breads, focaccia, croissants, bomboloni, biscotti, pasticcotti, tarts, and seasonal specialties such as panettone or colomba? Do you have a European passport? Do you have experience as a Head Pastry Chef or Senior Pastry Chef within a premium bakery, patisserie, or café environment? Language: English (Required)