Position Summary:
Executive Head Chef provides overall culinary leadership and execution for kitchen operations, including dining, catering, and banquet services. Drives menu innovation, food quality, cost control, and team development; ensures seamless high-volume/event execution and efficient labor management.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Oversee and execute kitchen opening/closing procedures.
- Take 100% responsibility for quality of product served.
- Interview, hire, onboard, and train kitchen employees.
- Plan menus and utilize food surpluses based on guest counts, marketing conditions, and dish popularity.
- Oversee food procurement and monitor/maintain inventory.
- Collaborate with restaurant management to coordinate front-of-house and back-of-house operations.
- Enforce consistent quality and safety standards.
Required/Preferred Skills & Abilities:
- Advanced cooking techniques, flavors, and presentation.
- Ability to execute consistent, high-quality dishes under pressure.
- Menu development (seasonal, cost-effective, brand-aligned).
- Knowledge of dietary restrictions and food trends.
- Leadership: trains/coaches staff, holds team accountable, manages conflict, builds a positive culture.
- High-volume/banquet execution: precise prep lists/pars/ordering; manage multiple events; keep kitchen clean/ready; prioritize during peak hours.
- Business acumen: controls food cost/waste/inventory; labor management and scheduling; understands P&L.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, attention to detail, and accountability.
Education & Experience:
- Culinary degree preferred (not required).
- 5+ years kitchen management experience with menu development and business/budgeting background required.
Physical Requirements:
- Hot/wet/humid/loud environment; frequent standing/walking/bending/stooping and lifting up to 60 lbs repetitively; ability to handle large quantities of food and equipment by hand.