Executive Chef — Italian Innovation & Culinary Leadership

Fabio Viviani Hospitality Group; Glenview (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Lago in Glenview, IL is seeking an Executive Chef to lead all culinary operations. You will oversee back-of-house teams, menu development, food quality, inventory and cost controls, while upholding Lago’s authentic Italian cuisine and hospitality.

Working with restaurant leadership, you will ensure dishes reflect quality and passion, foster a positive kitchen culture, and drive operational excellence through budgeting and compliance with safety standards.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years culinary experience with 5+ years in leadership/executive chef roles.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred.
• Strong financial acumen with budgets, food costs, and labor efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Oversee back-of-house operations, line cooks, prep, pastry staff, and dishwashers.
• Hire, train, and manage kitchen staff to foster a positive, collaborative environment.
• Develop innovative, seasonal menus that reflect Lago’s vision.
• Control food costs and manage inventory with effective ordering and waste reduction.
• Lead pre-shift meetings and provide ongoing feedback and performance evaluations.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Collaborate on budgeting and cost management with Lago leadership.
• Uphold Lago’s values in all operations.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food cost control

Kitchen management

Communication

Staff coaching

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Lago in Glenview, IL is seeking an Executive Chef to lead all culinary operations. You will oversee back-of-house teams, menu development, food quality, inventory and cost controls, while upholding Lago’s authentic Italian cuisine and hospitality.

Working with restaurant leadership, you will ensure dishes reflect quality and passion, foster a positive kitchen culture, and drive operational excellence through budgeting and compliance with safety standards.