EXECUTIVE CHEF, HOSPITALS
Job Summary
As the Executive Chef, you will lead all culinary operations within a healthcare environment, ensuring high-quality food production while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and customer satisfaction. This role is responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, developing and executing menus, managing staff, controlling costs, and delivering exceptional dining experiences for patients, visitors, and team members.
Key Responsibilities
Lead daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficient food production and service excellence
Plan and execute regular, therapeutic, and modified menus in accordance with company standards, nutritional guidelines, and patient needs
Ensure adherence to standardized recipes, portion control, and presentation standards
Review and complete daily production records, inventory reports, and waste logs to optimize efficiency and minimize food waste
Monitor food quality by tasting and evaluating prepared items to ensure consistency and excellence
Recruit, train, mentor, and develop culinary team members on food preparation techniques, equipment operation, food safety, sanitation, and company standards
Establish and maintain cleaning, sanitation, and preventive maintenance schedules for kitchen equipment, storage areas, and workspaces
Manage food and supply inventories, ensuring product availability while maintaining budgetary and cost-control objectives
Oversee the proper utilization of leftover food products in compliance with company policies and food safety guidelines
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, local, and regulatory health and sanitation requirements, including successful outcomes of health department and third-party audits
Maintain a safe work environment by enforcing company safety policies and procedures, including incident reporting protocols
Partner with leadership, clinical teams, and support departments to deliver exceptional service and patient satisfaction
Participate in departmental meetings, leadership initiatives, staff development programs, and ongoing professional education
Preferred Qualifications
Ace in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
3–5 years of progressive culinary leadership experience in healthcare, hospitality, foodservice, or a related environment
Previous experience managing high-volume, complex foodservice operations
Strong background in institutional cooking, batch cooking, and healthcare dining services
Catering and special event experience is a plus
Comprehensive knowledge of culinary trends, food quality standards, cost controls, menu development, sanitation practices, and food presentation
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Outlook, and web-based systems
ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety certification preferred
Excellent leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills