Executive Chef

New York, NY, USA|

Job Overview

Compensation

Salary

Range $90,051.50 - $96,051.50

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

Training and Development

Career advancement opportunities

Job Description

Wagamama is a dynamic and internationally recognized restaurant chain known for its vibrant, contemporary take on Asian-inspired cuisine. Founded in 1992, wagamama has grown rapidly to become a staple in the casual dining sector, celebrated for its commitment to fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and an engaging dining experience. The company prides itself on a philosophy rooted in kaizen, a Japanese term meaning 'continuous improvement,' which shapes its approach not only in its culinary creations but also in fostering a supportive work culture. This philosophy reflects a dedication to growth, teamwork, and innovation, ensuring that both guests and employees enjoy a rewarding and enriching experience. Wagamama operates in a diverse and fast-paced environment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, respect, and personal development among its team members. Joining wagamama means becoming part of a community where your ideas are valued and your career aspirations are nurtured.

The Executive Chef role at wagamama is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing all back-of-house operations within the restaurant. This position plays a pivotal role in driving culinary excellence, operational efficiency, and team development to deliver outstanding guest experiences. The Executive Chef leads the kitchen team by setting high standards for food quality, consistency, and presentation while managing labor, food costs, and inventory to meet business objectives. This role demands a strategic partner to the restaurant leadership team, contributing to a positive culture and ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations. It also includes mentoring and developing future culinary leaders, encouraging continuous learning, and embodying the kaizen philosophy to consistently elevate kitchen performance. The Executive Chef is expected to be an inspirational leader, adept at managing a high-volume kitchen environment with a focus on innovation, quality, and operational excellence. This position requires flexibility, strong communication skills, and a passion for creating memorable dining experiences that align with wagamama's brand values and standards.

Job Requirements

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
Comfortable working in a fast-paced high-temperature kitchen environment
Flexible schedule including days nights weekends and holidays
Ability to work up to 55 hours per week depending on business needs
Occasional off-site support and up to 15-20% travel may be required

Job Qualifications

5+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience in a high-volume restaurant pan-Asian experience preferred
Strong financial acumen with experience managing labor food cost inventory and kitchen performance
Proven success leading coaching and developing high-performing teams
Strong knowledge of food safety sanitation HACCP principles and applicable certification requirements
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Job Duties

Lead all back-of-house operations ensuring exceptional food quality consistency and execution
Recruit coach and develop a high-performing culinary leadership team and kitchen staff
Drive labor food cost inventory and operational performance to achieve business goals
Champion food safety sanitation HACCP compliance and back-of-house operational standards
Oversee kitchen scheduling staffing purchasing and vendor partnerships
Partner with front-of-house leadership to deliver exceptional guest experience
Drive continuous improvement through coaching operational excellence and the wagamama philosophy of kaizen
Foster a positive inclusive culture while building future culinary leaders