Gecko Hospitality | Executive Chef / Kitchen Manager | Upscale Casual | South Carolina

Gecko Hospitality is conducting a confidential search on behalf of a high-volume upscale casual concept in South Carolina. Our client is seeking an experienced Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager to join their leadership team and they're looking to move quickly.

About the Opportunity

This is not your typical executive chef role. Our client isn't looking for someone who rolls up their sleeves and gets stuck on the line all day. They need a true kitchen leader. The ideal candidate runs expo from the service side, keeps eyes on the entire BOH operation, and when they spot a problem, they solve it through smart staffing decisions and real-time coaching, not by jumping in and doing it themselves. Think: moving a team member to a struggling station, redirecting traffic, and keeping service flowing without missing a beat.

If you thrive in high-energy, high-volume environments such as a hotel, resort, or casino restaurant concept where capacity and speed of service are paramount, this role was built for you.

The Role

• Lead, develop, and hold accountable a BOH team of 60+ hourly staff, 3 Sous Chefs, and 2 Lead positions

• Run expo and observe BOH operations from the service side, proactive problem solving, not reactive line work

• Oversee all administrative functions: inventory, ordering, scheduling, and performance reviews

• Champion a strong food culture, 80% scratch-made menu with a heavy emphasis on seafood

• Bring energy, communication, and genuine leadership presence to every shift

What They're Looking For

• High-volume experience, $10M+ annual volume is a must

• Background from a branded or independent restaurant, large resort, hotel, or casino concept welcome

• Strong delegator who leads through people, not around them

• Upscale casual sensibility with the ability to execute at scale

• Seafood experience highly desired

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary in the $110K range (flexibility for the right candidate)

• Bonus incentive program

• Relocation package

• Full benefits

• Growth opportunity within a large, established company

This is a rare opening with a client we have a strong, trusted relationship with. If you or someone in your network brings the volume experience, leadership presence, and culinary chops this role demands, especially out of high-volume markets, we want to hear from you.

If interested, please email debbie.kelleher@geckohospitality.com