Executive Chef in Lexington, North Carolina at Childress Vineyards

Executive Chef
Location: The Bistro at Childress Vineyards
The Bistro at Childress Vineyards, a celebrated culinary destination renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation, is seeking a visionary Executive Chef. This high-profile role reports directly to the Bistro General Manager and offers an exceptional opportunity to lead the culinary team.

Position Overview
As our Executive Chef, you will set the culinary direction across all Bistro and Events operations—from daily dining experiences to exclusive events. You will be responsible for conceptualizing innovative menus, overseeing kitchen operations, and inspiring a talented team, all while ensuring that every dish meets our uncompromising standards of quality, presentation, and service.

Key Responsibilities
Menu Development:
Conceptualize and craft innovative menus for the bistro and catered events, emphasizing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and accommodating diverse culinary preferences and dietary needs.
Food Preparation:
Oversee all aspects of food preparation and presentation, ensuring consistency, superior quality, and adherence to the highest health and safety standards (ServSafe certified).
Team Leadership:
Inspire, mentor, and lead a dynamic culinary team. Foster an environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and professional growth.
Event Coordination:
Collaborate with event managers and esteemed clients to understand requirements, timelines, and logistics, ensuring the flawless execution of high-end catered events.
Inventory & Cost Management:
Manage inventory control, supplier relationships, and purchasing processes. Develop and monitor food cost budgets, implementing strategies to optimize profitability without compromising quality.
Quality Assurance:
Conduct regular inspections of kitchen operations to ensure compliance with cleanliness, safety, and quality standards, making proactive adjustments as needed.
Customer Engagement:
Interact with guests and clients during service and events to gather feedback, ensuring that our culinary offerings consistently exceed expectations.

Qualifications
Experience:
Minimum of 5+ years in a management role within commercial kitchens, catering establishments, or restaurants, preferably in a bistro, fine dining, or high-end catering environment.
Education:
Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.
Skills:
Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills. A passion for culinary innovation and excellence, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure setting.
Certifications:
Must be trained in sanitation standards (ServSafe).
Availability:
Open availability is required, including daytime and occasional evening shifts.

Work Environment & Additional Requirements
This role operates in a dynamic, high-energy kitchen environment that includes evenings and weekends.
The ideal candidate must be able to lift up to 45 pounds and stand for extended periods.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

Compensation:
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.
Join us at The Bistro at Childress Vineyards and lead our culinary team in delivering exceptional dining experiences that reflect the very best in refined, innovative cuisine. We look forward to welcoming a passionate culinary leader who is eager to elevate our culinary artistry to new heights.