EXECUTIVE CHEF

Unidine is a leading hospitality food service group renowned for its dedication to exceptional people who share a passion for creativity and talent in delivering memorable dining experiences. With a commitment to scratch cooking and innovative dining concepts, Unidine operates a diverse portfolio of restaurants, bars, cafeterias, and bistros throughout the United States. Their culinary philosophy emphasizes the use of the freshest ingredients, staying ahead of industry trends, and empowering team members with the right tools and resources to perform at their best. This dedication to quality and innovation has positioned Unidine as an industry leader and earned them multiple awards and recognitions for excellence in foodservice and hospitality.

The role of Executive Chef at Unidine in New Canaan, CT, is a prestigious opportunity with a salary range of $75,000 to $80,000, complemented by merit increases to reward performance. The Executive Chef serves as an inspirational and organized leader responsible for overseeing daily kitchen operations, including recruiting, training, and food preparation. This position demands a hands-on leader who not only demonstrates culinary expertise through the delivery of high-quality and appealing meals but also actively participates in the daily tasks to set a strong example for the culinary team.

The Executive Chef is charged with elevating resident, employee, and client satisfaction by managing all facets of the kitchen from food quality and presentation to adherence to safety and sanitation protocols. They lead culinary production daily, ensuring compliance with all health standards while maintaining cost controls and maximizing profitability. Creativity plays a key part in this role, with responsibilities including menu development, incorporating seasonal and local ingredients, and creating unique specials that appeal to client preferences.

In addition to culinary leadership, the Executive Chef demonstrates strong business and financial acumen. They participate in the development and implementation of business strategies aligned with the broader organizational mission and values. Managing departmental expenses such as food costs, supplies, and equipment, they develop and maintain budgets, analyze financial information, and adjust business plans as required to meet or exceed targets. The role also includes overseeing purchasing, receiving, food inventory, and staffing schedules to align with forecasted demand.

Customer service is of paramount importance in this role. The Executive Chef is responsible for creating an environment of 100% resident satisfaction by coaching staff in best-in-class service and fostering a positive professional atmosphere. They handle guest feedback and complaints with care, continuously seek opportunities to improve the customer experience, and ensure that team members are empowered to provide genuine hospitality.

Building and managing a cohesive team is integral to the Executive Chef’s success. This includes establishing clear goals for performance and budgets, soliciting and acting on employee feedback, and fostering engagement through open communication and support. The Executive Chef provides ongoing training, performance coaching, and counseling to develop the team’s capabilities fully. Setting high standards while supporting fairness and equity ensures a productive and motivated workforce.

Preferred qualifications for this role include an Associate’s degree or equivalent experience, a minimum of five years in progressive culinary or kitchen management positions, and extensive experience in catering and high-volume foodservice operations. Hands-on experience and a comprehensive knowledge of food trends, sanitation, and cost controls are critical. Proficiency with computers, including Microsoft Office and communication tools, is essential, as is a willingness to engage in client satisfaction programs. ServSafe certification is highly desirable.

Joining Unidine means becoming part of an award-winning team committed to excellence in hospitality and foodservice. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, retirement plans, flexible time off, paid parental leave, holiday and personal leave, wellness programs, and more. Unidine is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair treatment and inclusive hiring practices. They support a safe, drug-free workplace and provide accommodations for qualified applicants. This role is ideal for an experienced culinary leader ready to inspire, innovate, and lead a dynamic team in delivering exceptional dining experiences.