Executive Chef — Luxury Beachfront Fine Dining Leader

La Playa Resort; Naples, Northern (FL, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/dental/vision insurance

LTD/STD and life insurance

Paid time off (PTO)

401k plan

Complimentary meals

Resort discounts

Flexible scheduling

Training and certifications

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead Baleen, the signature beach front fine dining restaurant. The role requires a proven track record in luxury hospitality, strong culinary vision, and the ability to elevate guest experiences with innovative menus.

The ideal candidate will oversee culinary operations, mentor a high-performing kitchen team, and ensure excellence in food quality, presentation, and service while managing budgets and health standards.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of proven leadership experience as an Executive Chef or senior culinary leader in fine dining or luxury hospitality.
• Strong culinary creativity and menu development expertise.
• Excellent team leadership, communication, and coaching skills.
• Experience managing budgets, food costs, labor costs, and inventory.
• Commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
• Passion for innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Completion of a technical culinary education or apprenticeship program; Certificate in Culinary Arts preferred
• Food service permit or valid health/food serve safe certification
• Experience with various cooking methods and procedures
• Familiar with industry best practices

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for all culinary operations at Baleen.
• Develop innovative menus that enhance the restaurant's reputation and guest experience.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency.
• Lead, coach, and mentor kitchen team members to achieve excellence.
• Manage food and labor costs while maintaining profitability goals.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Collaborate with Culinary and Food and Beverage Leadership to deliver exceptional dining experiences and special events.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Culinary creativity

Team leadership

Budgeting

Health & safety

Communication

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Culinary apprenticeship certificate

Job description

LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead Baleen, the signature beach front fine dining restaurant. The role requires a proven track record in luxury hospitality, strong culinary vision, and the ability to elevate guest experiences with innovative menus.

The ideal candidate will oversee culinary operations, mentor a high-performing kitchen team, and ensure excellence in food quality, presentation, and service while managing budgets and health standards.