Culinary Director

Position Summary

The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining experience that reflects our 'Expect Better' brand promise. This role goes beyond food production — it is about creating meaningful moments, supporting resident independence, leading with heart, and contributing to occupancy growth through hospitality excellence.

Culinary Operations

• Develop and execute seasonal menus in partnership with approved vendors
• Maintain consistency in presentation, portioning, and quality standards
• Ensure therapeutic diets are implemented accurately in collaboration with nursing and care teams
• Maintain inventory control systems and cost tracking
• Oversee kitchen production schedules and staffing coverage
• Lead catering for internal events, marketing functions, and family nights

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with state assisted living regulations and local health department requirements
• Maintain ServSafe certification (or state equivalent)
• Ensure proper documentation of temperature logs, cleaning schedules, food storage compliance, and diet modifications
• Participate in state surveys and respond promptly to any deficiencies

Financial Accountability

• Manage food and kitchen labor budget
• Maintain target food cost percentages
• Monitor waste and implement waste reduction strategies
• Contribute to NOI improvement through operational efficiency

Team Leadership

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and train culinary staff
• Promote a culture of accountability and heart-first leadership
• Conduct performance reviews and coaching conversations
• Maintain staffing levels aligned with occupancy and census
• Support cross-department collaboration

Qualifications

• 3+ years culinary leadership experience (senior living, hospitality, healthcare, or restaurant preferred)
• Experience managing kitchen staff and food budgets
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets preferred
• ServSafe Certified (or ability to obtain)
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to work flexible hours including occasional evenings/weekends for events

Benefits

• Compensation: 18 dollars an hour
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401 (K) matching
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee assistance programs