Head Butcher

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Head Butcher to lead our butchery operations. This role is responsible for overseeing the full meat lifecycle—from sourcing and breakdown to preparation, quality control, and team leadership—while upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship, hygiene, and product excellence.

The ideal candidate combines traditional butchery expertise with modern production discipline, understands premium meat cuts from around the world, and can lead a team in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Butchery & Production

• Oversee daily meat processing, cutting, trimming, portioning, and preparation
• Expertly break down whole carcasses and primal cuts (beef, lamb, veal, poultry)
• Manage premium cuts (Wagyu, Angus, grass-fed, specialty imports)
• Ensure yield optimization and minimal waste across all operations
• Supervise marination, vacuum packing, skin-packing, and labeling processes
• Maintain consistent portioning for retail, restaurant, and catering requirements

Quality Control & Food Safety

• Enforce strict HACCP, Dubai Municipality, and food safety standards
• Ensure proper storage, temperature control, FIFO, and traceability
• Conduct daily quality checks on freshness, color, marbling, and shelf life
• Maintain clean, organized, and audit-ready production areas at all times

Team Leadership & Training

• Lead, train, and supervise butchers and assistants
• Set daily production targets and workflows
• Train staff on cutting techniques, knife skills, safety, and hygiene
• Monitor performance and ensure discipline, efficiency, and teamwork

Inventory & Cost Control

• Monitor stock levels and coordinate with procurement
• Control wastage, shrinkage, and production losses
• Assist in pricing strategy through yield and cost analysis
• Support production planning for peak periods and events

Collaboration & Development

• Work closely with chefs, operations, and management
• Support new product development (ready-to-cook, marinated cuts, specialty items)
• Assist in catering and live-station preparations when required
• Uphold brand standards and presentation for all retail products

Requirements & Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years experience as a senior butcher or head butcher
• Strong knowledge of global meat cuts and techniques
• Experience in high-end butcheries, restaurants, or meat production facilities
• Proven leadership and team-management skills
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations
• Physically fit and comfortable with hands-on production work
• Experience in the UAE is a strong advantage

Job Type: Full-time