Director of Culinary - CTH
We are on a mission to elevate the culinary experience for our guests and are seeking an innovative and seasoned Director of Culinary to lead our culinary team and drive excellence in our menu offerings.
Position Overview:
As the Director of Culinary, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the culinary identity of our brand. This position requires a visionary culinary expert with a proven track record in menu development, culinary innovation, and team leadership. If you are passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences and ready to make a significant impact in a high-growth environment, we invite you to be a key player in our culinary journey.
Responsibilities:
Culinary Strategy: Collaborate with the executive team to develop and execute a comprehensive culinary strategy that aligns with the company's growth goals and brand identity.
Menu Development: Lead the creation, refinement, and innovation of menus across all locations, ensuring a balance of creativity, market relevance, and profitability.
Quality Standards: Establish and enforce rigorous culinary standards to ensure consistency and excellence in food quality and presentation.
Vendor Relationships: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors, negotiating contracts and sourcing high-quality ingredients.
Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and mentor culinary staff across multiple locations, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Cost Control: Work closely with the finance team to manage food costs, control expenses, and maximize profitability without compromising quality.
Compliance and Food Safety: Ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations, maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and food safety.
Market Trends: Stay abreast of culinary trends, industry developments, and customer preferences to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with other departments, including marketing, operations, and procurement, to align culinary initiatives with overall business objectives.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience as a Director of Culinary or in a senior culinary leadership role within the restaurant industry.
- Culinary degree or equivalent culinary training.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Demonstrated success in menu development and culinary innovation.
- Financial acumen related to culinary budgeting and cost control.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Experience working in a private equity-backed environment is a plus.