Chef de Partie - Paula Pastry

Ashford Castle

Cong•Terms and conditions for this position will be discussed at interview•Full time

Chef de Partie - Paula Pastry at Ashford Castle


We are currently recruiting an enthusiastic and talented Chef de Partie to join the renowned PaulaPastry team at Ashford Castle, working alongside Paula Stakelum, Global Director of Chocolate and Pâtisserie for Red Carnation Hotels.


This is a unique opportunity to become part of one of Ireland's most prestigious culinary destinations, helping to create exceptional pastry experiences that celebrate the heritage, landscape, and seasonal flavors of the Ashford Estate. From refined desserts and handcrafted pâtisserie to innovative guest experiences such as Paula Pastry at The Drawing Room, your contribution will combine artistry, storytelling, and technical excellence.


Location: Cong, County Mayo, Ireland

Employment Type: Full-Time

Working Pattern: 5 days over 7 days, including weekends and Bank Holidays


What's in It for You?

  • Professional, award-winning training and development opportunities
  • Discounted accommodation across the Red Carnation Hotel Collection
  • Employee recognition events
  • Discounted rates with local businesses and third-party service providers
  • Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability)
  • Meals provided on duty
  • Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire
  • Friend and family referral bonus scheme
  • Two paid volunteering days each year
  • Holiday allowance increasing with service, up to 25 days
  • Hotel-based recognition incentives
  • Free access to the Employee Assistance Programme


Who Are We?

Joining Ashford Castle means becoming part of a legendary 800-year-old estate and a proud member of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. Once home to the Guinness family, Ashford Castle is widely recognised as one of Ireland’s most prestigious luxury destinations, offering exceptional hospitality, fine dining, unique estate activities, and a world-class spa. Voted No. 1 Resort Hotel in the UK & Ireland by Travel + Leisure, the hotel proudly retains its Double Forbes Five-Star status.


Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare and present a range of luxury pastries, desserts, cakes and chocolates to the highest standards.
  • Take responsibility for your designated pastry section and ensure consistency across all products.
  • Assist in the preparation of signature items inspired by seasonal ingredients, estate-grown produce, and wild botanicals.
  • Work closely with Paula to execute innovative concepts and menu developments.
  • Ensure excellent stock control and minimise waste through careful planning and organisation.
  • Maintain exceptional food hygiene, HACCP, and safety standards at all times.
  • Contribute creative ideas that enhance the guest experience and support the continued evolution of Ashford Castle's pastry offering.


What We Are Looking For

  • A professional qualification in Culinary Arts, Professional Cookery, Pastry Arts, or a related discipline.
  • Previous experience as a Demi Chef de Partie, Chef de Partie, or Pastry Chef within a luxury hotel, fine dining restaurant, pâtisserie or Chocolate shop.
  • Experience working with chocolate and confectionery techniques, including tempering, moulding, decoration, and the creation of high-quality chocolate products, would be highly advantageous.
  • A genuine passion for pastry, chocolate work, and modern dessert techniques.
  • Strong artistic flair and an appreciation for presentation and detail.
  • An interest in seasonality, local ingredients, and food storytelling.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • The ability to work calmly and efficiently in a high-volume luxury environment.
  • A positive attitude and a commitment to continuous learning and development.
  • Legal eligibility to work in Ireland.


Why Join Paula's Team?

This is far more than a traditional pastry position. It is an opportunity to work with a team known for creating meaningful guest experiences through exceptional pâtisserie. Inspired by the landscapes, botanicals, and heritage of the Ashford Estate, every creation is crafted with purpose, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail. Guests experience pastries that evoke place, memory, and story, making this an exciting role for a chef who wants to develop their skills at the highest level of luxury hospitality.


If you are passionate about pastry artistry, innovation, and delivering unforgettable guest experiences, we would love to hear from you.


#estateprem