SOUS CHEF – PRATO
Winter Park, FL
Position Overview:
Prato, an Italian-inspired cornerstone of the Park Lights Hospitality portfolio, is seeking a visionary and skilled Sous Chef to join our Culinary Team. This role is integral to maintaining Prato’s exceptional standards while preparing for a future of national expansion. As Executive Sous Chef, you will not only assist the Executive Chef in daily kitchen operations but also play a pivotal role in the optimization and growth of Prato’s BOH systems and infrastructure.
As Sous Chef, you will serve as a positive leader, inspiring our Culinary Team while collaborating closely with FOH Management to deliver exceptional guest experiences and uphold Prato’s nationally recognized reputation and unwavering customer loyalty.
You’ll contribute to the ongoing remodel of our kitchen, ensuring that the design and functionality align with operational efficiency, while also supporting the Executive and Culinary Teams with Prato’s ambitious growth strategy. This position offers a unique opportunity to impact both the immediate success of Prato and its long-term vision.
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Key Responsibilities:
Kitchen Operations & Culinary Excellence:
- Maintain consistency and excellence in food presentation, taste, and portioning, setting a standard of culinary quality.
- Collaborate with the Culinary Team and Executive Chef to develop innovative Italian-inspired dishes that reflect Prato’s identity while utilizing premium ingredients.
- Lead daily kitchen operations, ensuring seamless execution during service and fostering a positive, team-oriented environment.
Project Management & BOH Optimization:
- Assist in project managing the kitchen remodel, ensuring all updates are designed to optimize BOH efficiency and align with future growth objectives.
- Support the Executive Team in collaborating with architects, designers, and contractors, providing insight on BOH operational needs and best practices.
- Assist in developing and refining BOH systems and workflows to enhance productivity, streamline processes, and prepare for multi-location scalability.
Team Development & Leadership:
- Recruit, train, and mentor kitchen staff, building a culture of collaboration, growth, and positivity.
- Foster a learning environment that emphasizes professional development, continuous improvement, and adherence to Prato’s values.
Strategic Contribution & Growth Preparation:
- Partner with Senior Leadership to prepare the Culinary Team for significant national expansion, ensuring operational readiness and scalability.
- Support the establishment of standardized recipes, training materials, and operational guidelines to ensure consistency across future locations.
- Work closely with the General Manager and Restaurant Management Team to achieve financial goals, optimize guest satisfaction, and maintain Prato’s industry-leading reputation.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Minimum 5 years of progressive culinary experience with reputable hospitality companies or brands.
- Proven experience as a Sous Chef or higher in a high-volume, upscale dining environment, preferably 250+ covers per day.
- Demonstrated success in managing or contributing to operational optimization projects.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
- In-depth knowledge of Italian cuisine, culinary techniques, and kitchen management principles.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and project management skills.
- Experience with Microsoft 365, Restaurant 365 or equivalent, and restaurant-centric scheduling, invoicing, and inventory applications and platforms.
- Ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining professionalism.
- Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and the ability to frequently lift/move 50 lbs.
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Benefits:
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience plus a quarterly incentive performance bonus package.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and paid time off.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a rapidly expanding hospitality company.
- A unique chance to shape the future of Prato’s culinary operations and contribute to the brand’s national expansion.
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At Prato, we are committed to genuine hospitality, inspired food and beverages, and supporting our team to deliver exceptional guest experiences. Join us in preparing Prato for the next chapter of its journey, and leave your mark on a growing, dynamic brand.
Please send your resume with professional references to TKress@prato-wp.com