Executive Sous Chef

Valhalla is Chef Stephen Gillanders' unique dining concept that marks his most significant work to date.
Located in the heart of Wicker Park, Valhalla captures and culminates the best of Gillanders’ career and distills it into an experience unlike any other.

Inspired by Norse mythology, the name Valhalla describes a heavenly, great hall where heroes partake in a grand feast. The completely open kitchen and large Chef’s counter showcase exceptional culinary and hospitality talent, while creating an intimate, personalized experience to interact with guests.

Valhalla’s cuisine consists of an ever-changing Chef’s tasting menu and a beverage program that showcases 5 different pairings, craft cocktails, and a selection of highly allocated spirits.

Position Overview:

The Executive Sous Chef is responsible for ensuring a superior guest experience through excellent food and hospitality. This position will support the kitchen team by organizing, planning, and directing aspects of kitchen operations. The Executive Sous Chef must have a passion for creating delicious food, building high performing teams, and delivering hospitality to stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Consistently deliver a culture of exceptional hospitality to guests and team members.
• Lead a high performing kitchen team and maintain excellence & hospitality before, during, and after service
• Delivers consistent execution of food and timely flow of service by directing the team and ensuring an effectively expedited service
• Educate dining room service staff on all aspects of food menu & culinary procedures through tastings and staff presentation
• Fosters a positive, collaborative work environment for both the service and kitchen teams, ensuring clear communication at all times
• Ensure that all recipes, product, food preparations and food execution meet restaurant's specifications and commitment to culinary excellence
• Ensure that back of house operations are kept clean, safe and up to all “A” level health code standards
• Lead the kitchen team to ensure all team members are appropriately trained to execute the assigned station properly
• Provides feedback and guidance with excellence and hospitality in mind, ensuring that all team members have a pathway for growth and development
• Consistently looks for internal and external opportunities to build our growing team

What we need from you:

• 1+ years of Sous Chef or similar experience
• Knowledge of restaurant scheduling, inventory, and purchasing experience
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide a team
• Knowledge of culinary techniques, food safety standards, and kitchen operations
• Creative and innovative mindset with a passion for developing new and exciting dishes
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods of time
• Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and creative environment.
• Room for growth and advancement within the company.
• Be part of a team that values quality, creativity, and passion.

If you are a confident, experienced, and driven individual with a flair for creativity, leadership, and overall management, we would love to hear from you.

To Be Considered:
Please send us a cover letter with an up-to-date resume.

We look forward to meeting you!

Valhalla is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.