Executive Kitchen Leader — High-Volume Upscale Dining

Kona Grill - Columbus; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical, Dental, Vision insurance

Life & Disability Insurance

Traditional & Roth 401(k)

Dining discounts / onsite meals

Career development & growth

Paid sick time

Paid time off

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Commuter benefits

Dependent care benefits

Job summary

THE ONE GROUP is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead culinary operations, craft and execute a high-quality menu, maintain cost efficiency, and deliver exceptional guest experiences in a fast-paced, upscale setting.

This role combines hands-on cooking with team leadership, scheduling, and compliance with safety standards. Expect competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for growth within our expanding global brand.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of Executive Chef or high-level kitchen leadership experience in a high-volume, upscale dining environment.
• Proven ability to lead and develop culinary teams in a fast-paced, dynamic setting.
• Expertise in kitchen operations, food cost management, and financial accountability.
• Strong culinary creativity and menu development skills.
• Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication abilities.
• Hands‑on approach, with the ability to work on the line and execute all kitchen positions when necessary.
• SERV Safe certification and comprehensive food safety knowledge.
• Experience with restaurant POS and inventory systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, ensuring high-quality food production, consistency, and presentation.
• Execute all line positions when needed and support the kitchen team during peak hours.
• Ensure all menu items are prepared to the highest standards and lead to the creation of seasonal specials.
• Conduct line checks to ensure temperature accuracy, food freshness, and plating consistency.
• Expedite orders efficiently while maintaining smooth kitchen workflow.
• Train, mentor, and motivate the kitchen team, ensuring a culture of excellence and teamwork.
• Create and oversee weekly employee schedules, ensuring optimal staffing levels.
• Hold monthly kitchen meetings to address team goals, performance, and feedback.
• Manage food costs, payroll, and inventory, ensuring profitability without compromising quality.
• Work closely with the purchasing team to ensure the availability of top-quality ingredients.
• Oversee health and safety standards, ensuring compliance with local and corporate food safety guidelines.
• Prevent unnecessary expenses by monitoring kitchen breakage and waste reduction strategies.
• Act as a culinary ambassador for THE ONE GROUP, engaging with guests and VIPs to enhance the dining experience.
• Collaborate with the Events & Marketing team to create seasonal menu updates and special event offers.
• Represent THE ONE GROUP in media appearances, community events, and restaurant promotions.

Skills

Executive Chef experience

Team leadership

Kitchen operations

Cost management

Culinary creativity

Line cook skills

SERV Safe

POS systems

Inventory systems

Tools

Restaurant POS

Inventory systems

Job description

THE ONE GROUP is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead culinary operations, craft and execute a high-quality menu, maintain cost efficiency, and deliver exceptional guest experiences in a fast-paced, upscale setting.

This role combines hands-on cooking with team leadership, scheduling, and compliance with safety standards. Expect competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for growth within our expanding global brand.