An Icon Returns – Grand Hotel Locarno on Lake Maggiore

Located in the heart of Locarno, overlooking Lake Maggiore and just a few steps from the lakeshore, the Grand Hotel Locarno returns as a stylish oasis of elegance, well-being, and new discoveries. Since its opening in 1876, the hotel has been closely linked to the history of the town and of Europe-as the host of the 1925 European Peace Conference and the venue for the first Locarno Film Festival in 1946. In the spring of 2027, the legendary Grand Hotel will celebrate its reopening, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of its Belle Epoque heritage. Timeless grandeur blends with modern luxury; time slows down and becomes a way of life. Nestled in alpine landscapes, surrounded by sweeping views of the lake and the hotel's expansive grounds, the hotel offers a rare balance of refined tranquility and restorative relaxation. The 110 elegantly designed rooms and suites combine historic character with contemporary comfort; many feature private terraces or balconies overlooking Lake Maggiore. Wellness is an integral part of the experience-with an indoor pool in historic vaulted ceilings, an outdoor pool, areas for yoga and fitness, and rooms for relaxation. Culinary offerings range from Mediterranean cuisine to refined Asian dishes, complemented by a lobby bar set beneath historic frescoes. With elegant event spaces and a spectacular event area that opens onto the 4,000-square-meter park, the Grand Hotel Locarno is both a retreat and a stage.

Your responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef in leading the kitchen team during the pre-opening phase, hotel launch, and ongoing operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, consistency, and guest satisfaction.
• Assist in developing menus, recipes, kitchen procedures, and culinary standards aligned with the positioning of Grand Hotel Locarno as a five-star luxury destination.
• Recruit, onboard, train, and mentor kitchen employees, fostering a culture of teamwork, professionalism, discipline, and culinary excellence.
• Supervise daily kitchen operations and ensure smooth coordination between all kitchen sections and service teams.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, HACCP standards, hygiene procedures, and company policies at all times.
• Monitor food production, portion control, waste management, and cost efficiency to achieve departmental financial objectives.
• Support inventory management, purchasing activities, stock control, and supplier coordination.
• Lead by example during service periods, maintaining a visible operational presence and supporting the team during high-volume and high-pressure situations.
• Collaborate closely with the Food & Beverage team to create seamless guest experiences and deliver outstanding service standards.
• Contribute actively to the successful opening, positioning, and ongoing development of the hotel's culinary offering.

Your Profile

• Several years of progressive culinary experience in luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, or high-end hospitality environments, including supervisory responsibilities.
• Formal culinary education or recognized professional chef qualification.
• Strong knowledge of international cuisine, modern culinary techniques, food safety regulations, and luxury hospitality standards.
• Previous experience in a Sous Chef or senior kitchen leadership role within an upscale or five-star environment.
• Pre-opening experience is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and inspire diverse teams.
• Excellent attention to detail and a passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
• Strong understanding of food cost management, labor productivity, inventory control, and kitchen performance metrics.
• Ability to remain calm, focused, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Fluent English is required; German and/or Italian are highly desirable.

We offer

• An exciting role and varied responsibilities within a forward-thinking and long-established company with a unique portfolio of hotels.
• Participation in the Arabella Hospitality Commercial Bonus Scheme.
• Flat hierarchy and a collegial team spirit.
• Permanent contract.
• Attractive benefits, including supplementary company health insurance, discounted hotel rates with our partner Marriott International, and contributions towards staff meals.
• An open and appreciative corporate culture in which we actively promote personal development.
• The unique opportunity to be part of the reopening journey of one of Switzerland's most historic and prestigious luxury hotels.

Contact

Have we piqued your interest? Then please send your detailed application materials