Culinary Director/Kitchen Manager

Position Summary

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Culinary Director/Kitchen Manager to lead our dining services team and create an exceptional dining experience for our residents. This role combines culinary expertise, leadership, organization, and hospitality to ensure nutritious, delicious meals are prepared and served in a welcoming environment. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who enjoys cooking, mentoring staff, managing operations, and building positive relationships with residents and team members.

Responsibilities:

Culinary Operations

• Plan, develop, and execute seasonal menus that provide nutritious, appealing, and well-balanced meals.
• Prepare and cook meals according to standardized recipes and dietary requirements.
• Ensure meals are presented attractively and served according to resident preferences and special dietary needs.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, taste, consistency, and portion control.
• Incorporate resident feedback into menu planning and dining services.

Leadership & Team Management

• Recruit, train, supervise, and mentor kitchen staff.
• Create staff schedules and ensure appropriate kitchen coverage.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment focused on resident satisfaction.
• Conduct ongoing coaching and performance management for culinary team members.
• Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, and strong work ethic.

Inventory & Budget Management

• Order food, supplies, and equipment while maintaining budget goals.
• Monitor inventory levels and reduce waste through effective purchasing and production practices.
• Track food costs and department expenses.
• Develop and maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal food safety regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation standards throughout the kitchen and dining areas.
• Conduct regular inspections and ensure proper food storage, handling, and temperature monitoring.
• Maintain accurate records related to food safety, inventory, and department operations.

Resident Experience

• Build positive relationships with residents and families.
• Accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and physician-ordered diets.
• Participate in resident meetings and special events as needed.
• Create an enjoyable dining experience that enhances residents' quality of life.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Kitchen Manager, Culinary Director, Executive Chef, or similar leadership role.
• Experience in senior living, assisted living, healthcare, hospitality, or high-volume food service preferred.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Experience managing budgets, purchasing, and inventory.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
• Ability to multitask and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Food Handler's Permit and/or ServSafe Certification preferred.

The Ideal Candidate

• Has a passion for cooking and serving others.
• Enjoys creating meals from scratch and introducing fresh menu ideas.
• Demonstrates strong leadership and accountability.
• Is dependable, organized, and detail-oriented.
• Communicates effectively with residents, families, staff, and department leaders.
• Takes pride in maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen.
• Understands that dining is a vital part of the resident experience.

Why You'll Love Working at Ashford

• Supportive leadership team that is accessible and involved.
• Clean, friendly, and homelike environment.
• Collaborative culture with strong teamwork across departments.
• Flexible scheduling.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Paid holidays.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Weekends off.

Full-Time Position - Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications

If you are passionate about food, hospitality, and enriching the lives of seniors, we invite you to join our team and help create an exceptional dining experience for our residents every day.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Food provided
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Physical Setting:

• Casual dining restaurant

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• management: 1 year (Preferred)
• cooking/kitchen: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Preferred)
• Food Handler Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person