Executive Chef

The Indigo Road Hospitality Group (IRHG) is a renowned hospitality company that embraces a unique philosophy, viewing hospitality not merely as a profession but as a family, a lifestyle, and a dynamic journey. Established in 2009 by Steve Palmer, IRHG distinguishes itself within the hospitality industry by prioritizing the well-being of its team members, believing wholeheartedly that when employees are cared for, they in turn provide exceptional care to guests. The company has grown to encompass more than 30 locations, offering a broad spectrum of exciting job opportunities and internal growth paths for dedicated individuals seeking to advance their careers within the industry. IRHG’s culture is anchored in heart, camaraderie, and a collective mission to revolutionize hospitality practices for the better.

As the Executive Chef at Oak Steakhouse Athens, a premier dining establishment under the IRHG banner, you will step into a leadership role that demands passion, skill, and a commitment to excellence. This position involves hands-on engagement in kitchen operations, leading by example alongside your team while fostering an atmosphere that values creativity, collaboration, and innovation. You will serve as a culinary ambassador for the brand, embracing and championing the company’s unique approach to internal hospitality, ensuring that every guest experience is memorable and every staff member feels supported and empowered. The Executive Chef will oversee all facets of the kitchen environment, including quality control, inventory management, and adherence to health and safety standards, while maintaining clear and effective communication to resolve challenges promptly and efficiently.

Collaboration is key, as you will work synergistically with the General Manager and senior leadership from the Home Office to optimize kitchen operations, manage labor costs, develop budgets, and forecast performance metrics to ensure profitability aligns with business goals. Your expertise in kitchen management and menu creation will be integral to curating a menu that reflects local flavors and seasonality, emphasizing fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers. This dedication to quality ingredients not only elevates the dining experience but supports community relationships and sustainable practices.

The role calls for a seasoned professional with more than five years of confirmed experience in kitchen management and culinary creativity. A successful candidate is a hands-on leader who delights in the art of cooking and leading by example, rather than simply delegating. Financial acuity regarding cost control, labor management, and profitability is essential, as is a deep commitment to serving others — both internally to team members and externally to guests. Exceptional communication, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to nurture a positive team culture are vital attributes required to excel in this role.

Joining IRHG offers a rewarding career path built on competitive compensation, benefits, and a nurturing environment that values your growth and well-being. Employees enjoy comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, access to a generous 401K plan with up to 50% matching contributions, and unique benefits such as a zero-interest home loan program. The company also supports a healthy work-life balance evidenced by generous paid time off policies, especially for new parents. Employee discounts at a variety of restaurant and boutique hotel properties across the group add an additional layer of satisfaction to this exceptional opportunity.

Through this role, you contribute meaningfully to the IRHG mission to forever change hospitality by influencing not just guest experiences but the lives of those who make those experiences possible. It is a role for someone who is ready to lead with heart, inspire with passion, and innovate with vision in an environment where your contributions truly matter.