Executive Chef

About the Role

We are seeking a talented and visionary Executive Chef to lead the culinary program for an exciting upscale restaurant opening in Chicago .

This role will be responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of culinary excellence, operational efficiency, and team leadership. The Executive Chef will play a key role in building the kitchen team, executing the culinary vision, and maintaining exceptional food quality and consistency.

This is a unique opportunity to lead the kitchen of a new restaurant launch and shape the culinary experience from the ground up .

Experience in upscale or fine-dining restaurants is strongly preferred.

• Lead the opening and culinary launch of the restaurant, including kitchen setup, hiring, and training the BOH team

• Oversee all kitchen operations , ensuring consistency, quality, and efficiency in food production

• Maintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and service timing

• Manage food costs, labor costs, and kitchen budgets , ensuring strong financial performance

• Develop and refine menus in collaboration with leadership, ensuring alignment with the restaurant’s concept and brand

• Supervise inventory management, purchasing, and supplier relationships

• Ensure strict compliance with local health, safety, and sanitation regulations

• Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff, fostering a culture of professional growth, accountability, and teamwork

• Work closely with the Restaurant General Manager to ensure seamless collaboration between FOH and BOH

• Culinary degree or formal culinary training preferred

• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in professional kitchens

• Previous experience in roles such as:

• Executive Chef

• Chef de Cuisine

• Sous Chef (senior leadership level)

• Experience in upscale or fine-dining restaurants strongly preferred

• Strong understanding of food cost management, inventory control, and kitchen operations

• Proven ability to lead, train, and inspire culinary teams

• Knowledge of food safety regulations and sanitation standards

• Experience working with high-quality ingredients and elevated cuisine

• Advanced English required
• Spanish is a plus

• Competitive compensation package

• Paid Leave and Paid Sick Leave in accordance with Chicago regulations

• Access to a retirement savings program in compliance with Illinois Secure Choice

• Opportunity to lead the kitchen for an exciting restaurant debut in Chicago

• Professional development and career growth within a growing hospitality group