Catering Executive Chef

Lessing's Hospitality Group is a distinguished hospitality company with a rich legacy spanning over 130 years. It operates more than 100 locations across the Northeast and Florida. The company is well-known for its diverse portfolio that includes 21 wedding and catering venues, 16 full-service restaurants, over 75 corporate and academic dining centers, a historic inn, and even a presidential yacht. Lessing's Hospitality Group prides itself on delivering unique, personalized guest experiences and exceptional hospitality that respects and honors its tradition. The company emphasizes quality, creativity, and tailored service, making it a premier choice in the hospitality industry for both clients and employees alike.

We are currently seeking a Catering Executive Chef to join one of our premier catering venues. This is a salaried full-time position offering a competitive salary range from $80,000 to $100,000 per year (for New York locations). The role includes benefits such as paid time off, 401K, and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time employees. The Catering Executive Chef will play a vital role in maintaining the outstanding culinary standards for which Lessing's Hospitality Group is known.

As a Catering Executive Chef, you will be responsible for managing culinary personnel and supervising all culinary activities to ensure seamless kitchen operations. You will oversee the purchasing of food and supplies from approved vendors while closely monitoring inventory to maintain cost efficiency. Part of your role will include the selection and development of recipes that meet high-quality standards and appeal to diverse client tastes. You will standardize production recipes to ensure consistency and set presentation techniques to align with the group’s excellence in catering presentation.

Menu planning and pricing are key responsibilities, requiring an understanding of current trends and customer preferences. The Executive Chef will ensure that all kitchen equipment is operating properly and safely, maintaining strict compliance with safety and sanitation standards. Staying current with industry trends and discovering new culinary techniques will be integral to your success, helping to foster continuous innovation and excellence within the team. You will also provide hands-on assistance with food preparation and offer guidance and supervision to kitchen staff, cultivating their skills and encouraging a collaborative work environment.

This role demands a combination of culinary expertise, creativity, leadership, and operational know-how. Your leadership will directly impact the overall dining experience, and you will be a key player in sustaining Lessing's excellent reputation for remarkable hospitality and exceptional food service. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned culinary professional who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced catering environment and is passionate about delivering high-quality food with a creative edge.