Executive Chef

We are seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for a dynamic organization. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned culinary leader who can seamlessly balance hands-on kitchen excellence with strategic business management. The ideal candidate will be passionate about elevating culinary standards, building high-performing teams, and creating memorable dining experiences.

This role requires a chef who thrives in collaborative, inclusive environments and is committed to fostering a culture of respect, innovation, and continuous improvement. You'll work closely with diverse staff and management while supporting operational excellence across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership & Operations

• Oversee all kitchen operations including food preparation, cooking, plating, and quality control
• Maintain exceptional standards for food presentation, taste, and consistency
• Execute and manage catering and event services while ensuring seamless delivery
• Develop and refine menus that showcase creativity, seasonality, and market trends

Business Management

• Manage all kitchen business functions including payroll, scheduling, inventory control, and cost management
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness
• Monitor food costs, waste reduction, and kitchen profitability metrics
• Handle disciplinary actions and performance management in accordance with company policies

Team Development & Culture

• Recruit, train, and develop a talented team of cooks and kitchen staff
• Create comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for current and new team members
• Foster an inclusive, respectful workplace culture that values diversity
• Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities

Operational Support & Quality Assurance

• Travel as needed to support operations, assess performance, and provide culinary guidance
• Collaborate with leadership to improve menus, presentations, and overall quality
• Share best practices and innovative techniques
• Ensure consistency in culinary execution while respecting market preferences

Communication & Collaboration

• Maintain professional relationships with all staff, management, and stakeholders
• Accept and implement constructive feedback with a solutions-oriented approach
• Utilize Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) for reporting, scheduling, and communication

• Participate in leadership meetings and contribute to strategic planning

Requirements

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in high-volume or fast-paced culinary environments
• Demonstrated ability to manage both culinary operations and business functions (payroll, inventory, scheduling, budget management)
• Strong leadership and team-building capabilities with proven ability to develop high-performing kitchen teams
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with ability to work effectively with diverse populations
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all staff and guests
• Ability to accept constructive feedback and implement operational and menu changes effectively
• Experience managing events and catering operations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams)
• Willingness and ability to travel as required
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands require

Preferred Qualifications

• Culinary degree or formal culinary training from a recognized institution
• Experience working across diverse culinary formats and service styles
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish
• Experience developing and implementing comprehensive SOP systems
• Background in multi-unit restaurant operations
• Proven track record of supplier relationship management and cost optimization
• ServSafe or equivalent food safety certification

Benefits

• Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 USD annually (commensurate with experience)
• Company-paid health insurance

• Company-paid vision insurance
• Company-paid dental insurance
• Company-paid basic life insurance
• Retirement plan with company match

• Paid time off

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.

Compliance with Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Workplace Harassment: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

E-Verify Participation: Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.

Privacy and Pay Equity:

California Residents: For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.

State-Specific Information:

Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.

Veteran Status: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment: Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles. 

Genetic Information: In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.

Local Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.