Restaurant Executive Chef

Executive Chef OpportunityAn acclaimed, chef-driven restaurant in Columbus, Ohio, is seeking an experienced and passionate Executive Chef to lead its culinary team. This is an exceptional opportunity for a talented culinary leader to oversee all kitchen operations while driving culinary excellence, team development, financial performance, and an outstanding guest experience.The Executive Chef is responsible for the overall direction and execution of the culinary program, including restaurant operations, menu development, food quality, cost controls, staffing, training, and kitchen culture. This role requires a hands-on leader who is passionate about hospitality, committed to excellence, and capable of leading a high-performing team in a fast-paced, upscale dining environment.Culinary Leadership & OperationsLead all back-of-house operations while maintaining the highest standards of food quality, consistency, presentation, and execution.Ensure exceptional execution during service while maintaining a calm, organized, and professional kitchen environment.Collaborate with restaurant leadership to deliver a seamless guest experience.Oversee daily kitchen operations, including production, prep, purchasing, receiving, and inventory management.Maintain cleanliness, organization, and sanitation standards throughout all culinary areas.Establish and reinforce systems, procedures, and best practices that drive consistency and efficiency.Menu Development & Culinary ExcellencePartner with ownership and leadership on menu innovation, seasonal offerings, and culinary programming.Maintain a strong focus on quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and exceptional presentation.Stay current with culinary trends while ensuring concepts remain operationally sound and financially successful.Continuously evaluate menu performance and identify opportunities to enhance guest satisfaction and profitability.Support beverage and culinary pairings in collaboration with restaurant leadership.Financial & Business PerformanceManage food costs, labor costs, purchasing, and inventory to achieve financial objectives.Analyze food cost reports, labor reports, and operational metrics to identify opportunities for improvement.Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency while maintaining exceptional quality standards.Oversee vendor relationships and purchasing practices to ensure quality, consistency, and value.Maintain accurate inventory controls and ordering procedures.Leadership & Team DevelopmentRecruit, train, develop, and retain a high-performing culinary team.Lead Sous Chefs, kitchen managers, and hourly culinary staff through coaching, mentorship, and accountability.Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented kitchen culture.Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing feedback and development opportunities.Create an environment focused on growth, collaboration, and culinary excellence.Standards, Compliance & SafetyEnsure compliance with all health department regulations, food safety standards, and company policies.Maintain rigorous standards for sanitation, cleanliness, and workplace safety.Oversee recipe adherence, portion controls, and quality assurance programs.Ensure accurate documentation and compliance with all operational procedures.QualificationsMinimum 5 years of Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or Executive Sous Chef leadership experience in an upscale, chef-driven restaurant environment.Proven success leading high-volume culinary operations.Strong understanding of contemporary American, French-inspired, or chef-driven cuisine.Demonstrated ability to lead and develop large culinary teams.Strong financial acumen, including food cost management, labor management, purchasing, and inventory controls.Experience with menu development, seasonal programming, and culinary innovation.Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.Passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences.Preferred Skills & AttributesHands-on leadership style with strong presence in the kitchen.High standards for quality, consistency, and execution.Ability to inspire and develop future culinary leaders.Strong organizational and time-management skills.Collaborative approach with front-of-house and restaurant leadership teams.Flexible schedule with availability for nights, weekends, and holidays.Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive salary commensurate with experiencePerformance-based bonus opportunityMedical, dental, and vision benefitsPaid time offDining privileges and discountsCareer growth opportunities within a growing hospitality organizationIf you are a culinary leader who thrives in a chef-driven environment, is passionate about developing great teams, and is committed to delivering exceptional food and hospitality experiences, we would love to speak with you.