Complex Executive Chef

Complex Executive Chef

We're seeking an experienced and collaborative Complex Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for a dynamic, multi-concept dining destination in University City. This high-profile role oversees a diverse portfolio including casual and upscale dining outlets, event-driven spaces, and a rooftop venue designed for both community engagement and private experiences. This is an opportunity to shape a vibrant food program, influence multiple concepts, and create memorable experiences at scale. You'll partner closely with culinary, operations, and marketing teams to drive innovation, consistency, and excellence across all touchpoints.

What You'll Do

• Lead all culinary operations across multiple restaurant concepts and event spaces
• Inspire, mentor, and develop a diverse team of chefs and kitchen associates
• Design and evolve menus that reflect a range of dining experiences, from casual to refined
• Oversee high-volume production while ensuring consistency, creativity, and quality
• Manage food, labor, and operating costs with a focus on efficiency and sustainability
• Partner with marketing and leadership teams to launch new culinary programs and seasonal activations
• Ensure all food safety, sanitation, and compliance standards are met or exceeded
• Build strong vendor relationships and oversee purchasing and inventory management
• Support and execute large-scale catering and private events, including rooftop and community programming

What We're Looking For

• Experience leading culinary operations in multi-unit or complex dining environments
• Strong background in restaurant-driven concepts, ideally across varying service levels (casual through fine dining)
• Proven success in high-volume production and catering or events execution
• Collaborative leadership style with a commitment to team development and engagement
• Financial acumen, including cost controls, forecasting, and inventory management
• Ability to balance creativity with operational discipline
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, multi-faceted environment with shifting priorities
• Culinary degree or equivalent experience is valued but not required

Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Restaurant Associates maintains a drug-free workplace.