Director of Culinary Services (Senior Living)

Discovery Management Group leads one of the nation’s most purpose-driven and people-centered senior living organizations, managing and enhancing senior living communities across the United States. With a focus on operational excellence, lifestyle personalization, and culture-driven leadership, we proudly serve residents and families with more than 15,000 units nationwide and growing. Our communities have earned Great Place to Work® certifications from 2022–2027.

About the role

As the Director of Culinary Services, you’ll play an essential role in enriching the lives of seniors, creating meaningful connections, and making a difference every single day. Your role includes providing both strategic oversight and hands-on leadership of the Culinary Services Department, including responsibility for menu planning, staffing, food quality, safety, and budget performance. You’ll play a vital role in resident satisfaction by creating memorable dining experiences while ensuring operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily culinary operations while participating in meal preparation and service
• Plan and execute menus that meet resident dietary guidelines and preferences
• Monitor food quality, consistency, and presentation; implement improvements as needed
• Ensure compliance with sanitation, safety, and dietary standards
• Conduct food safety audits and quality assurance checks
• Oversee purchasing, inventory control, and vendor contracts
• Manage budgets, monitor costs, and take corrective action when needed
• Manage, recruit, train, schedule, and evaluate culinary staff
• Lead orientation and in-service training programs for team members
• Engage with residents during mealtimes to ensure satisfaction and resolve concerns
• Collaborate with Executive Director and department heads to align food services with community goals

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of culinary leadership in high-volume, high-standard environments (e.g., country clubs, resorts, cruise ships)
• Hands-on experience leading kitchen operations, including cooking and staff oversight
• Food Safety Certification required
• Strong knowledge of sanitation, food handling, and loss prevention practices
• Culinary training or certification preferred
• Experience with menu engineering, cost controls, and vendor management
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and kitchen management systems
• Experience in senior living culinary services is a plus—but only if paired with demonstrated high service standards
• Ability to work in kitchen environments
• Oversight of food safety audits and inspections
• Exposure to high-pressure operational deadlines
• Ability to lift or assist with kitchen operations as needed

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) with employer match
• Paid training and career growth opportunities
• Wellness-related benefits
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Pay

$80,000 annually + 10% annual performance bonus

Schedule

Full-time, traditional leadership workweek with flexibility required based on business and operational needs, including Manager on Duty hours and on-call for emergency situations. Fully onsite in Tallahassee, FL.

Why join us

Discovery Senior Living has earned the coveted Great Place to Work® certification for 2025–2027. Our culture is built on core values we call the “Pillars of Excellence”: Teamwork, Integrity, Performance, Accountability, Compassion, Hard Work, and Creativity. We embrace change to ensure our residents receive the greatest value and our team members thrive in a dynamic, supportive environment.