Executive Chef — Multi-Outlet Hotel Dining Leader

Gecko Hospitality (Corporate); Downers Grove (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental & vision

Life insurance

401(k) with match

Paid leave & holidays

Employee discounts

Job summary

Gecko Hospitality (Corporate) seeks an Executive Chef to lead the culinary operation for a premier full-service hotel near Aurora, Illinois. The role oversees multiple restaurant and beverage outlets, café service, in-room dining, banquets, catering, and events.

As a senior culinary leader, you will shape the menu strategy, maintain high standards for quality and safety, manage costs, and mentor a high-performing kitchen team to deliver memorable guest experiences.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as an Executive Chef in upscale full-service hotel environments.
• Proven ability to lead multiple culinary outlets and drive menu strategy.
• Strong knowledge of food cost, labor, inventory, and recipe costing.
• Leadership and coaching skills with a focus on succession planning.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the culinary vision across multiple outlets and services.
• Lead menu strategy, development, and seasonal innovation.
• Maintain standards for quality, flavor, presentation, and portioning.
• Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing culinary talent; foster ownership and teamwork.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Menu development

Cost control

Staff development

Food safety & sanitation

Communication

Education

Four-year culinary degree

Job description

Gecko Hospitality (Corporate) seeks an Executive Chef to lead the culinary operation for a premier full-service hotel near Aurora, Illinois. The role oversees multiple restaurant and beverage outlets, café service, in-room dining, banquets, catering, and events.

As a senior culinary leader, you will shape the menu strategy, maintain high standards for quality and safety, manage costs, and mentor a high-performing kitchen team to deliver memorable guest experiences.