Executive Chef

Ridgewells Catering; Bethesda (MD); On-site; USD 75,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Short and Long-Term Disability

Life insurance

Paid time off

401K Retirement Plan

Job summary

Ridgewells Catering is seeking an Executive Chef to lead all culinary operations, ensuring the highest standards of quality for various high-profile events. This role demands exceptional culinary talent and significant leadership experience.

The ideal candidate will have a culinary degree, at least 10 years of culinary leadership experience, and be proficient in managing large-scale events. A comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans is offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of progressive culinary leadership experience.
• At least 5 years in an Executive Chef or senior role.
• Experience in off-premise catering and large-scale event production preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversees all culinary operations ensuring food quality.
• Leads kitchen operations for major events from prep to execution.
• Recruits, trains, and mentors the culinary team.

Skills

Culinary talent

Leadership skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Financial acumen

Education

Culinary degree from an accredited institution

Job description

The Executive Chef is a key member of the Ridgewells leadership team, responsible for overseeing all culinary operations and maintaining the highest standards of food quality, creativity, and presentation. This individual will lead a talented team of chefs, kitchen staff, and culinary professionals to execute menus for high-profile events, weddings, corporate functions, and major sporting events, including national contracts.

Culinary Leadership & Innovation

• Develop and implement innovative, seasonal, and trend-forward menus tailored to a wide range of events and clientele.
• Ensure culinary offerings reflect the Ridgewells brand—refined and visually stunning.
• Lead kitchen operations for major events, providing hands-on oversight from prep to final execution.

Team Management & Development

• Recruit, train, and mentor the culinary team, fostering a high-performance and collaborative environment.
• Schedule and coordinate staffing for daily production and large-scale events.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and excellence in kitchen standards.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and food sanitation standards (local, state, and federal).
• Oversee inventory, purchasing, and cost control to maintain budgeted food and labor costs.
• Collaborate with Operations, Event Planners, and Sales teams to ensure seamless execution of all events.

Client & Event Collaboration

• Participate in tastings, client meetings, and high-profile events to represent Ridgewells’ culinary vision.
• Customize menus and experiences for premium clients, maintaining flexibility and creativity under pressure.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Culinary degree from an accredited institution required; advanced certifications preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive culinary leadership experience, with at least 5 years in an Executive Chef or comparable senior role.
• Experience in off-premise catering and large-scale event production highly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional culinary talent with a deep understanding of food trends, techniques, and presentation.
• Proven leadership and team management skills in a high-volume, high-pressure environment.
• Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to collaborate across departments.
• Financial acumen in managing food and labor costs, purchasing, and inventory control.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and travel for major events.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Short and Long-Term Disability
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• 401K Retirement Plan