Executive Chef - Airport Multi-Unit Culinary Leader

SSP Group plc; Richmond; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Health and dental benefits

RRSP matching

Paid time off

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

SSP Canada is seeking an Executive Chef to provide culinary leadership across our food and beverage operations at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This senior role directs kitchen leadership, drives food quality, and ensures safety and profitability in a dynamic, multi-unit airport environment.

You’ll develop kitchen teams, set standards, coach leaders, and partner with operations to deliver exceptional guest experiences while balancing cost, labor, and quality in a hands-on, high-volume

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive culinary and food & beverage leadership experience.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training/experience.
• Proven experience leading and developing kitchen leaders, not just managing hourly staff.
• Strong understanding of food cost, labor management, inventory, purchasing, budgeting and P&L.
• Ability to establish standards and create accountability through other leaders.
• Food safety certification and ability to obtain airport/security clearances.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary program and food production standards across assigned YVR restaurant operations.
• Coach, develop and hold kitchen managers, supervisors and culinary teams accountable for execution and performance.
• Recruit, train and develop culinary talent while building succession plans and a strong leadership pipeline.
• Establish consistent standards for food quality, presentation, recipe execution and kitchen operations.
• Partner with restaurant and operations leaders to identify performance gaps and implement sustainable solutions.
• Monitor food cost, labor, purchasing, inventory and other key financial measures to improve profitability.
• Work with brand partners and culinary teams on menu development and execution standards.
• Ensure rigorous food safety, sanitation, workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
• Build a culture of accountability, communication and continuous improvement.
• Remain visible and hands-on in the operation, particularly during high-volume periods.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Communication

Relationship management

Strategic thinking

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent training

Job description

SSP Canada is seeking an Executive Chef to provide culinary leadership across our food and beverage operations at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This senior role directs kitchen leadership, drives food quality, and ensures safety and profitability in a dynamic, multi-unit airport environment.

You’ll develop kitchen teams, set standards, coach leaders, and partner with operations to deliver exceptional guest experiences while balancing cost, labor, and quality in a hands-on, high-volume