Culinary Director: Elevate Senior Living Dining

Better Living; Dixon (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off and holidays

401 (K) matching

Professional development opportunities

Employee assistance programs

Job summary

Better Living seeks a Culinary Director to lead dining experiences across our senior living communities, reflecting the 'Expect Better' brand. This role goes beyond food production—it's about hospitality, resident independence, and creating meaningful moments with heart.

You will develop seasonal menus, manage budgets, lead staff, and collaborate with marketing and life enrichment to drive occupancy while ensuring regulatory compliance and exceptional service.

Qualifications

• 3+ years culinary leadership experience (senior living, hospitality, healthcare, or restaurant preferred).
• Experience managing kitchen staff and food budgets.
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets preferred.
• ServSafe Certified (or ability to obtain).
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours including occasional evenings/weekends for events.

Responsibilities

• Create a restaurant-style dining experience aligned with Better Living standards.
• Build meaningful relationships with residents and families.
• Implement Resident-Led Initiatives including menu input sessions and themed events.
• Ensure individualized accommodations for preferences, allergies, and diets.
• Lead with hospitality and support occupancy growth through programming.
• Develop and execute seasonal menus in partnership with vendors.
• Maintain inventory control, cost tracking, and staffing coverage.
• Oversee catering for internal events and family nights.
• Ensure compliance with state regulations and ServSafe standards.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Team leadership

Budget management

Job description

Better Living seeks a Culinary Director to lead dining experiences across our senior living communities, reflecting the 'Expect Better' brand. This role goes beyond food production—it's about hospitality, resident independence, and creating meaningful moments with heart.

You will develop seasonal menus, manage budgets, lead staff, and collaborate with marketing and life enrichment to drive occupancy while ensuring regulatory compliance and exceptional service.