Executive Chef

Nashville, TN

About Us

We are a national hospitality management company dedicated to evolving the typical restaurant landscape into one that provides unique and meaningful experiences for each and every guest. Through innovative concepts, exceptional hospitality, and a commitment to quality, we create memorable destinations where great food, genuine service, and an engaging atmosphere come together.

We believe our people are at the heart of every successful guest experience. We are committed to building collaborative teams, developing talented hospitality professionals, and creating an environment where individuals can grow while contributing to something bigger.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Executive Chef to lead our kitchen operations and ensure an exceptional dining experience for every guest. The ideal candidate is a strong culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, takes pride in quality and consistency, and knows how to build and motivate a high-performing kitchen team.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate all kitchen activities, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and service, ensuring efficient and timely execution.
• Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, presentation, taste, and portion control through regular inspections and adherence to established recipes and procedures.
• Manage inventory, place orders, and maintain appropriate stock levels to support uninterrupted kitchen operations.
• Train, mentor, coach, and motivate kitchen staff while ensuring compliance with food safety, sanitation, recipes, and established cooking procedures.
• Schedule and assign shifts for kitchen personnel, balancing operational needs, workload, and labor efficiency.
• Oversee the cleaning, maintenance, and preventative maintenance of kitchen equipment, ensuring proper functionality and timely repairs or replacement.
• Ensure required maintenance is completed in accordance with local regulations and established timelines, including hood cleaning, grease trap service, and other required inspections or services.
• Ensure completion of line checks twice daily and address any issues promptly.
• Monitor and control food costs by minimizing waste, maintaining portion controls, and conducting regular inventory audits.
• Manage controllable labor costs through effective scheduling, staffing, and operational planning.
• Manage ordering and purchasing practices to maintain appropriate inventory while supporting food-cost objectives.
• Enforce strict adherence to health and safety regulations, including proper food handling, storage, sanitation, and workplace safety practices.
• Respond promptly and professionally to guest concerns or complaints involving food quality, portion sizes, or kitchen service.
• Ensure adherence to all brand policies, procedures, standards, and recipes.
• Collaborate effectively with front-of-house leadership, management, suppliers, and corporate team members.
• Lead by example as a team player and actively contribute to the overall success of the restaurant experience.
• Perform other duties and supportive functions as assigned by management.

Qualifications & Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Culinary School or formal culinary training preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an Executive Chef in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
• Proven experience managing kitchen operations and successfully leading, developing, and motivating a diverse culinary team.
• Demonstrated culinary expertise and a passion for producing high-quality food while maintaining consistent standards.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with front-of-house staff, management, suppliers, and corporate partners.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management abilities, with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and positive while working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Proficiency with commercial kitchen equipment and a strong understanding of professional cooking techniques.
• Must be fluent in English; bilingual skills, particularly Spanish, are preferred.
• Must have reliable transportation.
• Current Food Manager certification required.

Benefits

• Fun, energetic work environment in a great location with an amazing and collaborative team.
• Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Employee discounts at multiple venues.
• Exclusive access to events, shows, and other special happenings.

What We're Looking For

We’re looking for a culinary leader who combines strong operational discipline with genuine passion for hospitality. The right candidate will take ownership of the kitchen, develop their team, protect food quality and costs, and create an environment where both employees and guests have an exceptional experience.

If you’re an experienced kitchen professional who is ready to take ownership, lead a team, and make an impact, we want to hear from you!

Apply today in Nashville, TN. Send your resume to cindy@geckohospitality.com and take the next step toward an exciting career with a team that values great people, great food, and great leadership.

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