Gecko Hospitality
Executive Catering Chef Business Dining & On-Premise Events
Location: Tidewater, Virginia
Position Overview: An opportunity is available for a senior-level Executive Catering Chef to lead a premier on-premise catering program within a dynamic business dining account in the Tidewater, Virginia area. Our client seeks a culinary professional with a proven track record of executing high-volume, high-quality catered events within a contract foodservice setting. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience leading culinary teams and managing all aspects of event production, from menu creation to final execution. This role is suited for a leader from a recognized contract foodservice provider such as Aramark, Compass Group, or Sodexo.
Key Responsibilities:
Direct and execute all on-premise catering functions, ensuring exceptional quality and presentation for events of varying scale and complexity.
Lead, mentor, and train a dedicated team of sous chefs and catering staff, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
Develop innovative and cost-effective catering menus, including customized offerings for client tastings and special events, and collaborate on pricing strategies.
Review Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) to create detailed production schedules and delegate tasks effectively.
Manage all aspects of catering event logistics, from initial planning and procurement to on-site execution and breakdown.
Maintain strict control over food and labor costs, ensuring alignment with budgetary targets without compromising quality.
Oversee inventory management, purchasing, and vendor relations for all catering operations.
Ensure rigorous adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and allergen management protocols.
Coordinate seamlessly with sales and operations teams to ensure flawless communication and event delivery.
Required Qualifications:
A minimum of 5 years of senior-level culinary leadership experience, with a specific focus on on-premise catering in business dining or contract foodservice environments.
Demonstrated experience managing high-volume catering production and leading culinary teams.
Strong financial acumen with proven ability to manage food and labor costs effectively.
Exceptional client-facing communication and presentation skills.
Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple events and competing priorities.
ServSafe Manager certification is required.
Flexible schedule to accommodate event needs, including evenings and weekends as required.
Compensation & Benefits:
A competitive base salary in the $80,000 range, commensurate with experience.
An extensive array of benefits, including comprehensive health coverage.
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and vacation plan.
A professional and supportive work environment with opportunities for growth.
To Apply: To learn more about this leadership role, please forward your professional resume to Tom Bull at (link removed)> Resumes received are treated with professional confidentiality. Tom Bull is an award-winning executive recruiter specializing in placing top-tier hospitality, restaurant, and foodservice F&B professionals.
Location: Tidewater, Virginia
Position Overview: An opportunity is available for a senior-level Executive Catering Chef to lead a premier on-premise catering program within a dynamic business dining account in the Tidewater, Virginia area. Our client seeks a culinary professional with a proven track record of executing high-volume, high-quality catered events within a contract foodservice setting. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience leading culinary teams and managing all aspects of event production, from menu creation to final execution. This role is suited for a leader from a recognized contract foodservice provider such as Aramark, Compass Group, or Sodexo.
Key Responsibilities:
Direct and execute all on-premise catering functions, ensuring exceptional quality and presentation for events of varying scale and complexity.
Lead, mentor, and train a dedicated team of sous chefs and catering staff, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
Develop innovative and cost-effective catering menus, including customized offerings for client tastings and special events, and collaborate on pricing strategies.
Review Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) to create detailed production schedules and delegate tasks effectively.
Manage all aspects of catering event logistics, from initial planning and procurement to on-site execution and breakdown.
Maintain strict control over food and labor costs, ensuring alignment with budgetary targets without compromising quality.
Oversee inventory management, purchasing, and vendor relations for all catering operations.
Ensure rigorous adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and allergen management protocols.
Coordinate seamlessly with sales and operations teams to ensure flawless communication and event delivery.
Required Qualifications:
A minimum of 5 years of senior-level culinary leadership experience, with a specific focus on on-premise catering in business dining or contract foodservice environments.
Demonstrated experience managing high-volume catering production and leading culinary teams.
Strong financial acumen with proven ability to manage food and labor costs effectively.
Exceptional client-facing communication and presentation skills.
Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple events and competing priorities.
ServSafe Manager certification is required.
Flexible schedule to accommodate event needs, including evenings and weekends as required.
Compensation & Benefits:
A competitive base salary in the $80,000 range, commensurate with experience.
An extensive array of benefits, including comprehensive health coverage.
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and vacation plan.
A professional and supportive work environment with opportunities for growth.
To Apply: To learn more about this leadership role, please forward your professional resume to Tom Bull at (link removed)> Resumes received are treated with professional confidentiality. Tom Bull is an award-winning executive recruiter specializing in placing top-tier hospitality, restaurant, and foodservice F&B professionals.