Executive Chef

Location: Central Virginia

Compensation: $85,000 - $100,000 plus comprehensive health benefits, PTO, 401K + match, resort and golf discounts, and long-term growth potential!

About the Opportunity:

We're partnering with a private resort community preparing to open its doors in Central Virginia this summer. This new, high-end destination will feature a full suite of luxury amenities including multiple dining outlets, wellness services, and an 18-hole championship golf course. We're seeking a visionary Executive Chef to lead the culinary team from pre-opening through launch—and beyond.

This is a rare opportunity to help shape the culinary identity of a brand-new resort property from the ground up. The Executive Chef will play a key role in developing menus, hiring and training staff, establishing back-of-house operations, and delivering a world-class dining experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Pre-Opening Phase:

• Collaborate with leadership to develop restaurant concepts, menu identity, and culinary POV
• Lead menu development for all outlets (breakfast, lunch, dinner, bar, special events)
• Establish BOH labor plans, recipe standards, inventory systems, and food safety protocols
• Oversee the procurement of kitchen equipment and wares
• Partner with HR and F&B leadership to recruit, onboard, and train kitchen staff
• Drive pre-opening preparations, soft opening plans, and launch operations

Post-Opening Responsibilities:

• Ensure consistent execution, presentation, and quality of all culinary offerings
• Manage food cost and labor targets in alignment with budget goals
• Implement quality checks and support menu updates as needed
• Maintain strong vendor relationships and sourcing standards
• Lead and inspire a high-performing kitchen team
• Maintain full compliance with food safety, sanitation, and regulatory standards

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Formal culinary degree strongly preferred
• Minimum 5 years in a senior kitchen leadership role
• Experience in fine dining, resort, or private club environments
• Previous pre-opening or concept launch experience is a plus
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Knowledge of budgeting, scheduling, and team development
• Technologically proficient in MS Office, POS systems, and inventory tools

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
• Role requires indoor and occasional outdoor work, with regular movement throughout the day

Perks & Benefits:

• Strong base salary (commensurate with experience)
• 401K with company match
• Comprehensive health benefits (with HSA option)
• PTO and holiday schedule
• Relocation assistance available

Apply today or contact Andy Bhikhari at andyb@geckohospitality.com to learn more.

All inquiries will be handled with strict confidentiality.

Gecko Hospitality is a leading executive search and recruitment firm specializing in the hospitality industry. We connect top hospitality professionals with hotels, resorts, private clubs, casinos, upscale restaurants, country clubs, health and wellness clubs, medical spas, REIT’s and more in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Our expertise spans executive and manager-level hospitality hiring, including, but not limited to General Managers, Executive Chefs, Sales Directors, and HR Managers.

As trusted hospitality recruiters in the DMV area, we help hospitality businesses in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. find top talent to drive success. Whether you're hiring hospitality leaders or seeking your next career move, our team delivers customized recruitment solutions tailored to your needs.

Partner with Gecko Hospitality today to access top hospitality talent or explore career opportunities in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.