Executive Chef Job Description

Location: 60 Miles North of Houston, TX

Salary: $95K - $119K, Bonus Potential and Relocation Assistance

Position Overview

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Executive Chef to spearhead our culinary operations. This role requires strong leadership, creativity, and commitment to deliver exceptional dining experiences. The Executive Chef will oversee menu development, kitchen operations, and staff management, while ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety, and presentation are maintained. This role is ideal for a dedicated culinary professional with a proven ability to thrive in high-volume or fine-dining environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Menu Development and Innovation
• Design and curate creative, seasonally inspired menus that align with culinary trends and exceed guest expectations.
• Regularly review and refine menu offerings, considering guest feedback, profitability, and industry insights.
• Incorporate diverse techniques and flavors to offer unique and memorable dining experiences.
• Kitchen Operations Management
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, ensuring efficiency and a high standard of delivery.
• Maintain full compliance with health, safety, and sanitation guidelines in all kitchen activities.
• Develop and monitor precise systems for food storage, preparation, and waste reduction.
• Staff Leadership and Training
• Lead and inspire a team of chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff to achieve exceptional results.
• Create and implement training programs to enhance team skills and ensure all staff are aligned with the restaurant’s vision and standards.
• Foster a positive, collaborative kitchen environment where team members can thrive.
• Cost Management and Budgeting
• Manage food costs through effective sourcing, portion control, and waste reduction strategies.
• Work closely with purchasing teams and vendors to secure high-quality ingredients within budget constraints.
• Analyze financial performance regularly, developing initiatives to improve profitability without compromising quality.
• Maintaining Culinary Excellence
• Ensure every dish meets the highest standards of flavor, presentation, and consistency.
• Conduct regular quality checks on food production and service to meet guest satisfaction goals.
• Stay ahead of food trends and emerging culinary techniques to keep the establishment at the forefront of the industry.

Qualifications and Skills

• Culinary Expertise
• Certification or degree in culinary arts, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 8 years’ progressive experience in high-volume or fine-dining environments, with at least 3 years in an executive leadership role.
• Leadership and Management
• Demonstrated ability to manage and motivate diverse kitchen teams.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build a cohesive, results-driven team.
• Creative Vision
• A passion for innovation and the ability to translate that into pioneering menu concepts.
• Attention to detail and an eye for presentation that aligns with fine-dining standards.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
• Adept in managing kitchen challenges, including last-minute guest requests or operational issues, with poise and efficiency.
• Analytical skills to interpret financial data and apply it to culinary and operational strategies.
• Health and Safety Knowledge
• Comprehensive understanding of food safety regulations and kitchen best practices.
• Engagement to upholding the highest hygiene and sanitation standards.

If interested, please send your resume to jay@geckohospitality.com