MS TCDC (Moshi Co-operative University Training Centre for Development Cooperation) is a well-established Pan-African training institution based in Usa River, Arusha, Tanzania. Known for its strong focus on leadership development, governance, human rights, gender equality, youth empowerment, and climate change governance, the institution has been delivering transformative learning experiences for over 50 years.
To support its growing hospitality and culinary operations, MS TCDC is now recruiting a highly experienced and innovative professional for the position of Head Chef (Executive Chef). This is a full-time leadership role designed for a culinary expert capable of managing high-volume food production while maintaining exceptional quality standards across multiple service points.
About MS TCDC
MS TCDC operates as a regional centre for training and capacity development across Africa. The institution hosts a wide range of guests including students, conference participants, development practitioners, and international partners. To meet its hospitality demands, MS TCDC runs multiple food service operations, including:
- Main Kitchen services
- Mahali Café
- Staff canteen
- Conference and event catering
- Outside catering and BBQ services
The Head Chef will play a central role in ensuring all these operations run efficiently and meet international culinary standards.
Role Summary
The Head Chef will provide strategic and operational leadership to the entire kitchen team. Reporting directly to management, the role involves overseeing food production, menu development, cost control, hygiene compliance, and staff supervision.
The successful candidate will ensure that all meals served at MS TCDC are consistent in quality, presentation, taste, and portioning while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This position is critical in elevating the overall dining experience for guests and strengthening MS TCDC’s reputation in hospitality services within Arusha.
Key Responsibilities
1. Kitchen Leadership & Supervision
- Lead, train, and mentor all kitchen staff across different sections
- Ensure smooth coordination between Main Kitchen and Mahali Café
- Improve teamwork, discipline, and workflow efficiency
2. Food Production & Quality Control
- Oversee daily meal preparation for restaurants, events, and conferences
- Maintain consistency in taste, presentation, and portion sizes
- Implement standardized recipes and production systems
3. Menu Development & Innovation
- Design creative, seasonal, and cost-effective menus
- Introduce new dishes aligned with guest expectations
- Enhance buffet, BBQ, and catering offerings
4. Cost Control & Inventory Management
- Monitor food cost percentages and reduce wastage
- Work closely with stores to ensure FIFO (First In, First Out) compliance
- Ensure accurate stock records and production reporting
5. Event & Catering Operations
- Manage large-scale banqueting and outside catering services
- Prepare meal boxes for tour operators and external clients
- Ensure timely and high-quality delivery of all catering services
6. Hygiene, Safety & Compliance
- Enforce HACCP food safety standards and kitchen hygiene protocols
- Ensure compliance with environmental and occupational safety regulations
- Address kitchen risks including electrical and wastewater systems
7. Coordination & Administration
- Work closely with reservations, accounts, and procurement teams
- Ensure accurate daily production sheets and financial reconciliation
- Support cost transparency and revenue protection systems
Required Qualifications
- Diploma or Degree in Culinary Arts or Professional Cookery
- Minimum 5–7 years of experience in a busy hotel, resort, or institutional kitchen
- Proven leadership and staff training experience
- Strong background in menu planning, costing, and kitchen administration
- Ability to manage high-volume food production efficiently
- Good understanding of international cuisine and buffet systems
Key Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- Strong leadership and team management abilities
- Excellent communication and coordination skills
- Creativity in menu development and food presentation
- Strong time management and ability to work under pressure
- Knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and HACCP standards
- Budgeting, costing, and stock control expertise
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Experience in banqueting and outside catering operations
- Familiarity with inventory systems and kitchen reporting tools
- Added advantage: specialization in pastry or BBQ cuisine
Terms and Conditions
The Head Chef position at MS TCDC comes with the following terms:
- A three-year renewable contract, depending on performance and organizational needs
- Competitive salary aligned with MS TCDC’s scheme of service
- Supportive and professional working environment
- Opportunities for career growth and professional development
- Based at MS TCDC Training Centre in Usa River, Arusha
MS TCDC is committed to diversity and inclusion, and women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Conclusion
This Head Chef position at MS TCDC represents a unique opportunity for a seasoned culinary professional to lead a dynamic kitchen environment within one of East Africa’s most respected training institutions. The role demands creativity, discipline, and strong managerial capability to maintain high standards across multiple hospitality operations.
For chefs seeking a leadership role that combines culinary excellence with institutional impact, this position offers both professional growth and meaningful contribution to a transformative organization.
