Executive Chef | Thompson/tommie Austin

About the Role

As a member of the hotel Executive Committee, the Executive Chef is a highly visible role with exposure to Senior and Corporate leadership. This position reports to the hotel General Manager and is responsible for kitchen operations including menu planning, provisioning, food preparation, and sanitation. The Executive Chef directs the training of culinary staff and other kitchen workers to ensure an efficient and profitable food service, demanding creativity, excellent communication skills, and the ability to maintain the highest culinary standards while working under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the culinary vision for the organization, including menu development, recipe creation, food presentation, and food description cards.
• Train and manage a team of cooks and kitchen staff, ensuring compliance with all Hyatt and State safety and sanitation regulations.
• Oversee food preparation and cooking activities to ensure quality and consistency of dishes.
• Utilize, follow, and implement Hyatt best practices systems for cost control, food quality standards, menu costing, and menu analytic oversight.
• Stay up to date on trends in the culinary industry and incorporate them into menu planning while keeping menus seasonally appropriate.
• Participate in creating and implementing F&B sales-driven marketing programs to increase business and broaden the customer base.
• Coordinate food production schedules to meet demands, considering factors such as events, holidays, and special occasions.
• Manage a daily product quality control checklist for all meal periods (line checks).
• Oversee evolving par systems for inventory and daily needs while maintaining budgeted goals.
• Provide direction and guidance to the purchasing and receiving department.
• Develop full comprehension and utilize Hyatt's S.O.P. systems, including Birchstreet, Kronos, and Avendra programs.
• Work with suppliers and through Avendra to negotiate contracts and secure the best possible prices for ingredients and supplies.
• Develop cost-effective methods for reducing waste and maximizing efficiency.
• Evaluate new products and equipment to determine if they will improve operations.
• Conduct regular research and develop relationships with local farmers and purveyors of sustainable and organic foods.
• Implement new hire training and onboarding for all culinary colleagues.
• Monitor food costs and inventory levels to ensure profit goals are met.
• Work in conjunction with restaurant leadership on F&B goals for the property.
• Ensure accountability, clear communication, and professionalism.
• Ensure food preparation meets health codes and standards by conducting regular inspections of kitchen facilities, storage areas, and equipment.
• Develop and work with special events teams to create menus for events such as weddings or corporate dinners.
• Maintain current recipe cards, food descriptions, and costing for all menus.
• Oversee employee cafeteria and standards.
• Maintain ongoing FOH culinary training material, including testing, food shows, and staff tastings to drive Forbes 5-Star recognition.
• Validate and approve weekly schedules per Hyatt standards.
• Conduct or participate in weekly meetings with the F&B team to establish weekly/monthly goals.

Qualifications

• 6 years or more of progressive/luxury hotel F&B experience.
• At least 4 years’ experience in a senior role in a culinary environment.
• High energy, entrepreneurial spirit, motivational leadership, and a proven track record in high-volume properties.
• Effective communicator with strong skills in providing exceptional customer service and associate relations.
• Ability to improve the bottom line and interact effectively with people of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds.
• Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and administrative skills.
• Service-oriented style with professional presentation skills.

About Thompson Austin

Thompson Austin offers 212 luxury guestrooms and suites plus 17 residences, along with a 10,000 square foot wellness center, restaurant and bar concepts, an expansive pool deck, private cabanas, and over 10,000 square feet of flexible and traditional event space. The 193-king room tommie Austin is designed for the spirited adventurer, encouraging exploration of Austin’s offerings while fostering inspiration and collaboration. tommie features a bespoke coffee and wine shop, offering warm and authentic service.

Benefits

• Health and welfare plans for you and your eligible dependents.
• Financial wellbeing options, including a 401(k) plan, College Savings Plan, and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, sick leave, and paid Family Bonding Time.
• Adoption Assistance.
• Discounted and complimentary rooms at Hyatt locations globally.
• Free colleague meals during shifts.
• Well-being and educational assistance.