Executive Chef: Member-Driven Culinary Leader

The Congress Lake Club; Hartville (OH); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Congress Lake Club in Hartville, Ohio seeks an Executive Chef to lead the culinary program, delivering exceptional dining for members and guests. This hands-on leader will shape menus, oversee banquets and events, and foster a vibrant, guest‑centric kitchen culture.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts or Hospitality Management with 8+ years of progressive leadership, or ~15 years of relevant experience; a food safety certificate is required and ACFC certification

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts and/or Hospitality Management with at least eight years of progressive food production and management experience; or
• Approximately 15 years of relevant culinary experience; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience demonstrating the knowledge, leadership skills, and abilities necessary for the position.
• American Culinary Federation or another recognized hospitality association certification is preferred. A valid food safety certification is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead all culinary operations for Club restaurants, banquets, and special events.
• Develop innovative, seasonally inspired menus based on member preferences and feedback.
• Maintain consistent standards for recipes, portions, plating, quality, and presentation.
• Hire, train, mentor, evaluate, and develop culinary leadership and line staff.
• Establish structured training and cross-training opportunities for the culinary team.
• Actively engage with members during service and respond to feedback.
• Oversee food and labor budgets and proactively manage expenses without compromising quality.
• Ensure the quality and consistency of all ingredients and products.
• Maintain impeccable sanitation, cleanliness, food safety, and kitchen safety standards.
• Partner closely with front-of-house managers and Club leadership.
• Lead pre-service meetings and ensure the culinary team is prepared for daily service and special events.
• Oversee kitchen equipment maintenance and preventive maintenance programs.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Menu development

Staff mentoring

Member engagement

Budget management

Food safety

Education

Bachelor's in Culinary Arts

Food safety certification

Job description

Congress Lake Club in Hartville, Ohio seeks an Executive Chef to lead the culinary program, delivering exceptional dining for members and guests. This hands-on leader will shape menus, oversee banquets and events, and foster a vibrant, guest‑centric kitchen culture.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts or Hospitality Management with 8+ years of progressive leadership, or ~15 years of relevant experience; a food safety certificate is required and ACFC certification