Executive Chef

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is opening a new restaurant in collaboration with Chef Rita Sodi and Chef Jody Williams, widely admired for shaping a distinct, ingredient-driven approach to Italian cooking in New York. Known for restaurants that feel both deeply personal and broadly welcoming, the chefs bring a philosophy rooted in seasonality, simplicity, and respect for craft. Their work is defined by clarity of vision, thoughtful restraint, and an enduring sense of place, values that will guide this restaurant's identity within one of the world's most iconic cultural institutions.Take the next step in your career now, scroll down to read the full role description and make your application.The Executive Chef will partner closely with Chef Sodi and Chef Williams, alongside Restaurant Associates, to translate this celebrated culinary point of view into day-to-day operations. This role offers the opportunity to steward a chef-driven concept on a meaningful scale, leading a kitchen that values collaboration, mentorship, and consistency as much as it does creativity. The ideal candidate is a grounded, people-first culinary leader who is inspired by working in partnership with renowned chefs, supported by an experienced hospitality organization, and motivated by the chance to build a restaurant that will be experienced by millions.Key ResponsibilitiesExecute and uphold the culinary vision established in collaboration with Chef Rita Sodi and Chef Jody Williams, ensuring consistency, integrity, and excellenceLead menu development and seasonal updates that reflect the restaurant's philosophy while meeting the needs of a diverse audienceEnsure high standards of flavor, technique, and presentation across all servicesBalance creativity with approachability, honoring the context of a museum settingBuild, mentor, and lead a diverse culinary team, fostering an inclusive and respectful kitchen cultureCreate clear systems for training, feedback, and professional growthSupport a collaborative environment where chefs at all levels feel valued and investedWork with Restaurant Associates leadership on recruiting, onboarding, and talent developmentOversee all back-of-house operations, including ordering, inventory, scheduling, food safety, and sanitationManage food and labor costs responsibly while protecting quality and team experienceImplement systems that support consistency, efficiency, and sustainabilityEnsure compliance with all organizational, local, and state standardsWork closely with front-of-house leadership to deliver a seamless, hospitality-driven guest experienceCollaborate with all stakeholders and museum partners to align culinary operations with goalsSupport special events, member programming, and moments of increased visibility with confidence and careServe as a thoughtful ambassador for the restaurant and its valuesWhat We're Looking ForExperience leading chef-driven restaurants or high-profile culinary programsA cooking style rooted in technique, restraint, and respect for ingredientsComfort operating in dynamic, public-facing environmentsA collaborative leadership approach that values communication, mentorship, and inclusionOperational fluency and the ability to balance creativity with structureA steady, engaged presence in the kitchen and across the restaurantExperience opening new restaurants or leading established concepts through growthFamiliarity with Italian or European-influenced cuisineBackground working within cultural institutions, destination dining, or hospitality groupsInterest in the intersection of food, art, and public spaceApply to Restaurant Associates today!Restaurant Associates is a member of Compass Group USAClick here to Learn More about the Compass StoryCompass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.MedicalDentalVisionLife Insurance/ ADDisability InsuranceRetirement PlanPaid Time OffHoliday Time Off (varies by site/state)Associate Shopping ProgramHealth and Wellness ProgramsDiscount MarketplaceIdentity Theft ProtectionPet InsuranceCommuter BenefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramFlexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)Paid Parental LeavePersonal LeaveApplications are accepted on an ongoing basis.Restaurant Associates maintains a drug-free workplace.Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. xhyhwjd For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely,click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information. ID: