We are seeking an Executive Pastry Chef for our 120+ room full-service, luxury, independent hotel in beautiful Nashville, Tennessee. Our culinary program is at the heart of our identity, and we are committed to delivering extraordinary dining moments. We are seeking a passionate and artistic Pastry Chef to lead our pastry team and elevate our dessert offerings to new heights.

Our Executive Pastry Chef is responsible for leading, managing, and organizing all aspects of the pastry and baking operations for the hotel. This includes creating and executing a world-class dessert menu for our fine dining restaurant, in-room dining, banquets, and special events. The ideal candidate is an expert in their craft, combining exceptional technical skill with artistic vision to produce high-quality, visually stunning desserts, pastries, and breads. You will inspire and manage a dedicated team, ensuring every creation reflects the luxury and quality our guests expect.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and execute an innovative and sophisticated dessert menu, including pastries, cakes, chocolates, ice creams, and breads that align with the hotel's luxury brand.
• Lead, train, and mentor the pastry team, fostering a collaborative and creative environment while ensuring a high standard of performance and professional growth.
• Oversee all pastry production for the hotel’s outlets, including the fine dining restaurant, lounge, banquets, and in-room dining, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene, food safety, and sanitation within the pastry kitchen, adhering to all health and safety regulations.
• Manage inventory, ordering, and cost control for all pastry ingredients and supplies. Source premium, high-quality ingredients from the best suppliers.
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef and other culinary leaders to plan menus, develop new concepts, and ensure a cohesive dining experience.
• Work with the events and sales teams to create custom dessert menus and showpieces for weddings, corporate functions, and other special events.
• Manage scheduling, payroll, and performance reviews for the pastry department staff.
• Stay current with pastry trends, new techniques, and seasonal ingredients to innovate and enhance the guest experience continuously.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of professional pastry experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role (e.g., Pastry Sous Chef or Pastry Chef).
• Proven experience in a luxury hotel, Michelin-starred restaurant, or high-end fine dining establishment is essential.
• A culinary degree or formal apprenticeship in pastry arts is highly preferred.
• Exceptional creativity and artistic talent, with a portfolio showcasing high-quality, visually stunning dessert creations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a team.
• Meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality and consistency.
• Expert knowledge of classic and modern pastry techniques, including baking, chocolate work, sugar work, and plating.
• Proficient in menu costing, inventory management, and maintaining food and labor cost targets.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a demanding environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Food Handler Certification or equivalent.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• STD and LTD
• 401K
• PTO program
• Pet Insurance
• Free parking
• Relocation