Executive Chef in San Francisco, California at Metropolitan Club

About the Metropolitan Club

Founded in 1915 with a commitment to tradition and refined social connection, the Metropolitan Club stands as a beacon of elegance in the heart of San Francisco. As a premier private club, we provide our more than 600 members with an unparalleled sanctuary for professional networking, fitness, fine dining, and social engagement. Our heritage is built upon a foundation of "membership by invitation," ensuring a community of distinguished individuals who value discretion and exceptional service. Joining our leadership team means becoming a steward of this legacy, fostering a culture where every member and guest is greeted with the highest standard of hospitality. www.metropolitanclubsf.org

Position Profile

This is a fractional, primarily administrative leadership role ideal for an experienced chef who excels in systems, mentorship, financial management, and culinary direction, while empowering the on-site team to execute day-to-day operations.

Position Summary

The Executive Chef provides strategic and administrative leadership for all culinary operations at the Metropolitan Club. This role focuses on menu direction, financial oversight, team leadership, and operational standards rather than daily line cooking.

The Chef partners with the General Manager, Food & Beverage leadership, and culinary team to ensure a consistent, high-quality dining experience across the Main Dining Room, Café Met, bar, private events, and employee dining. Emphasis is placed on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, cost control, and a refined private club experience.

Culinary Strategy & Oversight

• Develop and guide seasonal menus, recipes, and presentation standards
• Ensure consistency, quality, and alignment with Club standards and member expectations
• Collaborate on banquet, event, specialty, and themed dining offerings

Operations & Team Leadership

• Provide oversight, coaching, and development of kitchen leadership (Sous Chef, Banquet Chef, etc.)
• Establish staffing structures, scheduling standards, and performance expectations
• Support a culture of professionalism, accountability, and continuous improvement

Financial & Administrative Management

• Oversee food and labor cost controls, budgeting, and forecasting
• Approve purchasing, vendor selection, and product specifications
• Monitor inventory, waste reduction, and overall kitchen efficiency
• Partner with leadership on pricing strategy and financial performance

Member Experience & Club Engagement

• Collaborate on enhancing the overall dining experience for members and guests
• Engage with members periodically and support special culinary events
• Contribute to Food & Beverage initiatives and long-term planning

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations
• Maintain best practices in food safety, training, and kitchen procedures
• Oversee equipment standards, maintenance planning, and capital recommendations

Qualifications

• 7+ years progressive culinary leadership experience; private club, hotel, or luxury hospitality preferred
• Prior Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef experience required
• Strong financial acumen (food/labor cost control, budgeting)
• Proven ability to lead teams and implement systems rather than purely execute production
• ServSafe Manager Certification (or ability to obtain)
• Excellent communication and organizational skills

Preferred:

• Culinary degree or equivalent training
• Private club experience
• Wine and food pairing, wine knowledge a plus
• American Culinary Federation certification (CEC or similar)

Compensation and Benefits

The Metropolitan Club offers an attractive and competitive compensation and benefits package including:

Annual Compensation Range: $90,000 – $100,000

(commensurate with experience)

· 401(k) Retirement Plan

· Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Benefits

· Generous PTO plan

· Discretionary Annual Holiday Bonus

· Professional association dues and education reimbursement

The Metropolitan Club is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Submittal Guidelines

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please send a cover letter specific to the role along with your resume to Tom Schunn, General Manager. gm@metropolitanclubsf.org

To be considered for this opportunity all cover letters and resumes should be received by August 31, 2026.