Executive Chef

Canyon Ranch Operating, LLC; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Canyon Ranch Operating, LLC is seeking an Executive Chef in Tucson, Arizona to lead and elevate its culinary program. This pivotal role involves shaping extraordinary guest experiences and driving operational excellence across multiple outlets.

The ideal candidate will have 6 - 10 years of experience, a strong financial acumen, and a passion for mentoring. The position focuses on menu innovation, team development, and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality.

Qualifications

• 6 - 10 years of experience as an Executive Chef or senior culinary leader.
• Strong understanding of food cost control and budgeting.
• Passion for mentoring culinary professionals.

Responsibilities

• Lead and elevate culinary program across all outlets of service.
• Train and mentor culinary team members.
• Develop and execute seasonal, guest-focused menus.
• Ensure compliance with health regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Food safety knowledge

Financial acumen

Team development

Creativity

Education

Associate degree or two-year equivalent specialized training

Job description

Overview

Canyon Ranch guides the pursuit of wellbeing on a path through immersive destinations to a lifetime of proven answers. We inspire your well way of life through Integral Answers, Personal Guidance, Lifetime Impact and Evidence-based Progress.

Responsibilities

Lead. Inspire. Elevate the Culinary Experience.

We are seeking a visionary Executive Chef to lead and elevate our culinary program across all outlets of service. This is more than a kitchen leadership role – it’s an opportunity to shape an exceptional guest experience, mentor culinary talent, and drive operational excellence at the highest level.

If you are passionate about innovation, team development, quality standards, and delivering memorable dining experiences, we invite you to bring your creativity and leadership to our team.

You will oversee the successful operation of all culinary areas, ensuring excellence in food quality, presentation, cost management, sanitation, and production. You’ll partner closely with Front of House leaders and the Corporate Food & Beverage team to deliver a seamless and elevated guest experience across every outlet.

Develop & Inspire Talent

• Train and mentor culinary team members in the execution of Culinary Standards and SOPs

• Lead onboarding, coaching, and performance development initiatives

• Conduct hands‑on training in food safety, technique, plating, and ingredient knowledge

• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Lead High-Performing Teams

• Direct and manage kitchen staff across multiple outlets

• Optimize labor and food costs while maintaining operational excellence

• Create staffing plans aligned with business needs

• Conduct evaluations, manage performance, and uphold company policies

Drive Menu Innovation

• Develop and execute seasonal, guest-focused menus

• Collaborate with nutrition, marketing, and F&B leadership to align offerings with brand standards

• Ensure consistency in quality, creativity, taste, and presentation

• Keep menus fresh, relevant, and aligned with guest expectations

Ensure Operational Excellence

• Maintain immaculate production areas and ensure full compliance with health regulations

• Implement systems for sanitation, food safety, and waste control

• Partner with purchasing and engineering to maintain high-functioning kitchen operations

• Uphold the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and efficiency

Qualifications

What You Bring

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or senior culinary leader (6 - 10 years)

• Strong financial acumen (labor management, food cost control, budgeting)

• Passion for mentoring and developing culinary professionals

• Creativity balanced with operational discipline

• Deep knowledge of food safety and regulatory compliance

• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally and lead with confidence

Why Join Us?

This is your opportunity to lead a culinary program that values innovation, wellness, collaboration, and exceptional guest experiences. You’ll have the support of a strong leadership team, the resources to create inspiring menus, and the platform to build and mentor a talented culinary brigade.

If you’re ready to lead with purpose and elevate every plate that leaves the kitchen – we’d love to meet you.

Education: Associate degree or two-year equivalent specialized training or experience required

Certifications: Serve Safe Manager Certification is required