Head Baker

Overview

The Head Baker at Silversea Cruises holds a senior culinary leadership position responsible for managing bakery operations onboard and producing exquisite luxury baked goods. Tasked with generating artisan breads, viennoiseries, and specialized dietary products, this role ensures consistency, creativity, and adherence to international quality and company standards. Collaborating closely with an elite culinary team, the Head Baker enhances guests' dining experiences across premium venues by maintaining excellence and contributing to the cruise line's distinguished reputation for exceptional cuisine at sea.

Reporting Structure

This role reports directly to the Pastry Chef and Executive Chef.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and actively participate in daily preparation of bakery items such as breads, pastries, and specialty products across all onboard dining facilities, including special occasion events.
• Produce artisanal bread varieties including sourdough, laminated pastries, gluten-free options, and regionally inspired baked goods tailored to luxury standards.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef, Pastry Chef, and Fleet Corporate Pastry Chef to follow and refine company recipes and baking standards.
• Ensure exceptional product consistency, presentation quality, and detailed attention in all bakery items.
• Maintain rigorous hygiene and safety compliance per USPH, HACCP, and company protocols, ensuring sanitation and operational efficiency.
• Manage inventory by monitoring stock, handling requisitions, controlling portions, and minimizing waste through effective production planning.
• Lead, train, and mentor bakery staff to uphold high standards, encouraging professional development and team excellence.
• Interact with guests during culinary events and demonstrations to enhance their onboard dining experience.

Qualifications and Experience

• Possess valid STCW95 certification.
• Demonstrated experience as Head Baker or Senior Baker within luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, or cruise lines.
• Advanced expertise in artisanal bread baking, laminated dough techniques, and alternative dietary product preparation.
• Preferably hold a culinary degree or equivalent professional certification.
• Experience in cruise ship or global hospitality operations is highly beneficial.
• Hold necessary regulatory certifications and be medically and physically fit.
• Exhibit high moral integrity.

Essential Knowledge and Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of USPH, ILO, ISO, HACCP, and maritime safety regulations.
• Excellent culinary execution skills combined with cost control acumen in a fine dining, high production environment.
• Strong leadership and organizational capabilities to manage staff and operations efficiently.
• Willingness to travel extensively and serve onboard for prolonged periods at sea.

Language and Computer Skills

• Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory.
• Additional languages such as French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, or Mandarin are advantageous.
• Competent with Microsoft Office applications and familiar with hospitality systems including Fidelio and MXP.