Executive Chef

Horizon Hospitality Associates, Inc; Evansville (IN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Relocation assistance

Healthcare stipend

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Horizon Hospitality Associates, Inc is looking for an Executive Chef for an upscale, chef-driven restaurant in Western Kentucky. The role involves spearheading the culinary program, managing kitchen operations, and engaging with guests.

This position offers a base salary of $70,000 to $80,000 with bonus potential and relocation assistance. Candidates should have 3+ years of experience in a similar environment and a passion for culinary excellence.

Qualifications

• 3+ years as an Executive Chef or senior kitchen leader in upscale casual dining.
• Experience managing food costs and kitchen financials.
• Strong mentorship and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute seasonal menus and special features.
• Manage daily back-of-house operations including ordering and cleanliness.
• Recruit, train, and schedule kitchen staff.

Skills

Culinary expertise

Financial management

Team development

Guest engagement

Job description

Executive Chef | Upscale, Chef-Driven Concept

An upscale casual, chef-driven restaurant concept in Western Kentucky is seeking a talented and passionate Executive Chef to spearhead its culinary program. Operating within a beautifully restored, custom-built historic building, this landmark property possesses a highly successful vibe. Backed by hands-on local owners who also operate a thriving hospitality group in the area, this destination restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, including prime beef and fresh seafood, and on partnering with local bakeries and artisan purveyors.

Position Responsibilities:

• Culinary Leadership & Vision: Design and execute seasonal menus and creative weekly features that build upon the restaurant's reputation for unique, high-quality dining experiences.
• Kitchen Operations: Manage all daily back-of-house operations, including inventory, ordering, food safety, and maintaining meticulous kitchen cleanliness.
• Team Development: Recruit, train, mentor, and schedule kitchen staff to foster a positive, professional, and supportive kitchen culture.
• Financial Management: Maintain high standards of financial acumen by controlling food and labor costs, managing food waste, and budgeting in alignment with ownership.
• Community & Guest Engagement: Act as a guest-facing leader by table-touching during service, participating in downtown culinary events, and representing the heart of the concept.
• Cross-Concept Advisory: Provide strategic guidance on technique, plating, and workflow iterations for the ownership group's established high-end sports bar down the street.

Position Requirements:

• 3+ years of experience as an Executive Chef or senior kitchen leader within an upscale casual or chef-driven environment.
• Deep culinary expertise with a passion for creative plate presentations, upscale menus, and a willingness to explore diverse flavors.
• Proven track record of managing and controlling food costs, labor budgets, and overall kitchen financials.
• Strong mentorship and communication skills, with a focus on patience and structured training for growing kitchen teams.
• Hospitality-first mindset with comfort, interacting directly with guests, and participating in promotional public events.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays in alignment with typical dining operations.

Compensation Package:

• Base Salary: $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience.
• Bonus Potential: Performance incentives of 10% to 15% tied to revenue goals and cost controls.
• Relocation Assistance: Up to $2,000 to assist with moving expenses for regional candidates.
• Healthcare Stipend: Negotiable monthly allowance or health marketplace stipend.
• Growth Opportunities: This position will also oversee a smaller venue down the street with another concept opening in Spring 2027 right next door!

Only qualified candidates will be contacted.