Executive Chef

North Italia is a distinguished modern Italian restaurant concept established in 2002 under Fox Restaurants Concepts in Scottsdale, AZ. The brand has carved out a niche in the casual dining sector by delivering handcrafted Italian food with a contemporary and welcoming vibe. North Italia focuses on providing a stellar in-restaurant experience that prioritizes great hospitality every time, emphasizing the quality and details that go into every dish—from perfectly hand-cut pasta ribbons to the freshest vegetables used. Since its acquisition by The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated in 2019, North Italia has benefited from a wealth of resources and a strong company culture, joining a portfolio that includes more than 200 full-service casual dining restaurants across the US. Proudly ranked among Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For®, the parent company is renowned for caring deeply for its employees, giving back to communities, and striving for sustainability.

The Executive Chef position at North Italia is a leadership role that demands a blend of culinary expertise, business acumen, and team management skills. Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Executive Chef will be empowered to lead and inspire a passionate, highly respected team dedicated to delivering the restaurant's mission of "Great Hospitality. Every Time." This role offers a competitive compensation range from $85,000 to $100,000 annually, which may include base salary and geographic differentials. Additionally, the position qualifies for stock equity, a company car program, and extensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, company-paid group life insurance, disability coverage, and a 401k plan with company match among others. A flexible work environment with paid time off including vacation and sick time, tuition assistance, employee assistance programs, and options for health savings accounts further enhance the employee value proposition.

As an Executive Chef, you will oversee daily operations within the kitchen, managing shifts, scheduling, and meticulous planning. Your expertise with ingredient knowledge and culinary trends will be key in maintaining the high standards North Italia is known for. Crucially, you will utilize your career experience and leadership skills to help the restaurant reach its financial objectives by controlling labor and food costs and other controllable expenses. This position requires mastery of receiving and storage procedures, as well as the ability to manage volume shifts effectively from the expo or lead kitchen positions. The Executive Chef must skillfully handle on-the-fly requests with poise and calmness, fostering a positive work environment conducive to continuous learning and growth. Strong emphasis is placed on delivering a safe work environment, upholding product quality standards, and fostering open and honest feedback leading to performance improvement.

Ideal candidates for this role will have over five years of experience in high-volume culinary management, demonstrate a deep understanding of business operations and financials, and have a solid track record of upward career progression. Experience with POSitouch, Crunchtime, and Open Table systems is a plus, as is having a culinary school background. Physical stamina to work ten-hour shifts or more, including standing, squatting, or walking for extended periods, is essential. The role also involves physical requirements such as the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, handle kitchen machinery, and adapt to temperature changes and confined spaces. Sensory abilities to observe and maintain high standards for food presentation and safety must be top notch.

North Italia is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from a broad spectrum of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. They advocate for an inclusive and accessible workplace, offering reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. The company’s culture is rooted in family values, community engagement, and a dedication to providing an extraordinary culinary experience for every guest. Joining North Italia as Executive Chef means embracing ownership of the restaurant's success and becoming an integral leader within a celebrated and growing restaurant group.