Job Opportunity: Group Executive Chef at Urban Italian Group

Do you have what it takes to leave your mark on a transformative and fast-paced Swedish hospitality group, driving culinary innovation while shaping unique dining experiences?

Urban Italian Group, a leading hospitality group in Sweden, is seeking an exceptional Group Executive Chef to join our dynamic team and shape the culinary vision of our fast-growing, innovative restaurant group. Based in Stockholm, Sweden, this unique opportunity allows you to lead culinary excellence across multiple locations and countries while playing a pivotal role in our ambitious expansion plans.

About Us

Urban Italian Group is the creative force behind the highly popular Basta casual dining concept and the fine casual Florentine brand. With 11 restaurants across Sweden and Marbella, we’re known for our innovative approach to Italian cuisine, offering great value, broad appeal, and vibrant dining experiences.

At Urban Italian Group, our mission is clear: "We are dedicated to creating wonderful experiences for our guests in a thriving working environment for our Urban Italian Group family." This commitment drives everything we do, from the dining experiences we craft to the culture we cultivate for our team. We are proud of our team of 400 professionals, representing 53 nationalities.

Expansion Plans

• As part of our ambitious expansion path, we’re: Expanding Basta to 18 locations across Sweden by 2030.
• Expanding the Florentine brand internationally, with a primary focus on the Middle East, Oslo, and London.
• Launching a new multi-unit Italian concept in 2025.
• Opening a modern Spanish tapas restaurant in Stockholm in 2026.

Your Role

As the Group Executive Chef, you will be responsible for:

1. Operational Excellence:

Lead day-to-day operations in Sweden, focusing on maintaining consistent quality, efficiency, and adherence to standards across high-volume casual Italian dining restaurants.

Provide strategic culinary direction and top kitchen management support for new and existing international ventures.

2. Team Development:

Build and retain top chef talents through effective recruitment, training, and professional development programs.

3. Financial Oversight and Control:

Take full responsibility for kitchen budgets, including labor costs, food COGS, operating expenses, and inventory levels.

4. Strategic Culinary Leadership:

Develop and oversee the long-term culinary vision for the group, ensuring alignment with brand identities while incorporating local adaptations.

5. Expansion Projects:

Oversee kitchen operations during new unit openings, managing kitchen layouts, recruiting kitchen management teams, and leading team training and menu rollouts.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking an exceptional leader with:

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Group Head Chef in high-volume restaurant operations (experience with Italian cuisine is advantageous).
• Strong leadership and team management skills with a hands-on approach and a "can-do" attitude.
• The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

What We Offer

Joining Urban Italian Group means being part of a transformative group with endless opportunities to grow and make an impact. Here’s what you can expect:

Vision and Growth Opportunities: Be at the forefront of shaping the future of one of Scandinavia’s fastest-growing hospitality groups, with involvement in innovative concepts and brand expansions.

Leadership and Impact: Lead a talented culinary team and leave your mark on operations and culture, ensuring excellence across multiple brands.

Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a market-leading salary and performance-based bonuses.

Support and Development: Access to resources that set you up for success in your role.

Work Culture and Values: Join a values-driven team in a supportive, dynamic, and growth-oriented environment.

How to Apply

Are you the culinary leader we’re looking for? Let’s find out! Send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience, vision, and reasons why you want to join our group below. 

We’re excited to start a conversation with you and explore the possibilities together.