Executive Chef

Next Hospitality Advisors is a distinguished consultancy that partners with elite hotels, resorts, and culinary establishments, offering expert advisory and recruitment services within the hospitality sector. Renowned for their commitment to excellence, they cater to a clientele seeking unparalleled standards in culinary and hospitality leadership roles. Their expertise spans across ultra-luxury resorts, high-end restaurants, and multi-venue operations, ensuring that the right talent is matched with prestigious opportunities to elevate guest experiences and operational success. Their clients benefit from comprehensive market insights, tailored talent acquisition strategies, and a deep understanding of hospitality industry dynamics.

This role of Executive Chef is based in a premier ultra-luxury resort nestled in the renowned Napa Valley, California, an epicenter of fine dining and world-class hospitality. The Executive Chef will oversee a diverse and prestigious culinary portfolio that includes a signature elevated-dining restaurant, multiple casual dining concepts, grand banquets, and curated guest amenities that epitomize luxury and quality. This is a full-time, senior leadership position commanding a competitive base salary reflective of extensive experience and the demanding standards of the role.

The Executive Chef is entrusted with the overall creative and operational management of all culinary outlets within the resort, ensuring consistency in food quality, innovative menu development, and profitability. They will curate elevated dining experiences while balancing high-volume casual dining and exclusive service offerings such as 24/7 in-room dining and bespoke VIP arrival amenities. The role demands strategic thinking, exceptional organizational skills, and a deep passion for culinary arts and guest satisfaction.

Key responsibilities include leading a culinary team exceeding 50 members, managing food and labor budgets surpassing $15 million annually, and fostering relationships with premium local farms and artisans to maintain the resort’s commitment to sourcing high-quality, sustainable ingredients. The Executive Chef will design distinct menus tailored to each outlet’s concept, price point, and clientele, driving innovation and meeting high luxury food standards.

This position requires meticulous attention to detail and proficiency in modern kitchen technologies, inventory management software such as BirchStreet and CrunchTime, and POS/ordering systems to optimize operations and cost control. The role also mandates strict adherence to health and safety regulations, including HACCP protocols, ensuring the highest standards of sanitation.

Educationally, candidates must hold a degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or possess the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) designation. Required certifications include ServSafe Manager, Food Protection, and HACCP certifications. Additionally, fluency in Spanish is advantageous for effective communication within a diverse team and guest population.

Compensation includes a competitive base salary aligned with elite industry standards, an annual performance-based bonus linked to budgetary goals, social media feedback, and team engagement metrics. The comprehensive benefits package covers health, dental, and vision insurance, with a relocation assistance package available to attract top talent nationwide. Employees also enjoy resort privileges and dining discounts, fostering a positive work environment within one of Napa Valley’s most prestigious hospitality destinations.