Executive Chef

Executive Chef

At Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown, food isn't just fuel it's an experience. As our Executive Chef, you'll be the creative engine behind a culinary program that reflects the energy, culture, and flavor of South Florida. From a vibrant rooftop scene to curated local dining moments, you'll lead a passionate kitchen team and bring the Canopy spirit to life on every plate.

This is more than a chef role. It's a platform to make your mark on one of West Palm Beach's most exciting hotels, and to do it with the backing of one of the world's leading hospitality brands.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership & Kitchen Operations

• Lead all culinary operations across hotel dining outlets, banquet/events, in-room dining, and rooftop F&B programming
• Develop and execute seasonal, locally inspired menus that reflect the vibrant culture of West Palm Beach
• Drive consistency in food quality, presentation, and portion standards across all outlets
• Maintain a well-organized, safe, and efficient kitchen environment at all times

Team Development & Culture

• Recruit, hire, train, and develop a high-performing culinary team aligned with Canopy's service-first culture
• Lead daily pre-shift meetings and provide ongoing coaching to sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen staff
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive kitchen environment where team members feel valued and motivated to grow
• Manage scheduling, payroll, and labor costs in alignment with business demands

Financial & Operational Performance

• Manage and maintain food cost targets, waste reduction strategies, and inventory controls
• Partner with the Director of F&B to develop budgets, forecasts, and strategic menu pricing
• Negotiate with local vendors and purveyors to source premium, sustainable ingredients at competitive pricing
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations (HACCP, local health codes)

Guest Experience & Brand Alignment

• Create culinary programming that connects guests to the local culture, from farm-to-table sourcing to regionally inspired menus
• Engage with guests when appropriate to share the story behind the food and build memorable dining moments
• Collaborate with Sales, Events, and Marketing teams on F&B promotions, pop-ups, and special events
• Incorporate guest feedback into continuous menu refinement and service improvements

Qualifications

Required

• 5+ years of progressive culinary experience, with a minimum of 2 years in an Executive Chef or Sous Chef role
• Proven track record managing high-volume hotel, resort, or upscale restaurant kitchen operations
• Strong knowledge of food costing, menu engineering, and kitchen financial management
• ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days)
• Experience leading diverse culinary teams with a demonstrated commitment to staff development

Preferred

• Culinary degree or equivalent professional culinary training
• Familiarity with South Florida's culinary landscape, local sourcing, and regional cuisine
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus in our diverse, dynamic team environment

What We're Looking For

We hire for attitude and train for skill. The ideal candidate brings: A creative culinary vision with an authentic passion for locally inspired food A servant leader mentality you build people up, not just plates Adaptability and calm under pressure in a fast-paced, high-energy environment A guest-first mindset you understand that every dish tells a story Strong communication skills and a collaborative spirit across departments A drive for excellence without losing the warmth and energy of a great team culture

Why Join Us

A Property Unlike Any Other

• Be part of an exciting lifestyle hotel with a rooftop experience, vibrant F&B program, and deep community roots in the heart of West Palm Beach
• Work in a property that celebrates local culture, local flavors, and local partnerships, from the sourcing on your menu to the art on our walls

Hilton's World-Class Benefits

• Discounted hotel stays worldwide through the Go Hilton Team Member Travel Program
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• 401(k) with company match and competitive compensation package
• Paid time off, holidays, and sick leave
• Employee assistance program and mental wellness resources

Career Growth & Mobility

• Access to Driftwood Hospitality Management portfolio and Hilton's global network of 7,000+ properties, your career can go anywhere
• Leadership development programs, training resources, and mentorship through Hilton's and DHM internal career platform
• Opportunity to shape the culinary identity of a brand-new property from the ground up

Our Culture

• A team-first environment where your voice matters and creativity is celebrated
• A leadership team that invests in your growth and recognizes your contributions
• A workplace that is inclusive, energetic, and genuinely fun because great hospitality starts from within

Equal Employment Opportunity

Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.

Source: Driftwood Hospitality