Executive Chef

Goodyear, AZ, USA|

Job Overview

Compensation

Salary

Exact $85,000.00

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) match

Paid Time Off

Employee ownership program

Daily grab-and-go lunches

Job Description

M Culinary Concepts is an award-winning catering company based in Phoenix, Arizona, renowned for being one of the Top Companies to Work For and a Great Place to Work for three consecutive years. Specializing in creating exceptional culinary experiences across the Southwest, this dynamic company emphasizes a passionate, fun, and collaborative culture that values inspiring passion, service to others, humble confidence, and making huge fun. At M Culinary Concepts, the focus is on breaking away from the traditional stuffy corporate kitchen environment to provide astonishing food and beverage experiences that delight both clients and employees alike. Employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) match, and daily grab-and-go lunches made by talented chefs, along with a vibrant ownership spirit through the company’s internal app that keeps the team connected and motivated.

The Executive Chef - Catering role at M Culinary Concepts is a pivotal leadership position designed for a culinary expert with a strong background in catering and events. This role is ideal for a hands-on culinary leader who thrives in fast-paced situations and is passionate about delivering memorable food experiences. The Executive Chef will oversee all culinary operations related to catering, special events, and daily production, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, consistency, and profitability. Responsibilities include designing customized menus in collaboration with Sales and Event Operations teams, managing multiple simultaneous events from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate and social functions, and leading a talented culinary team. This role demands creativity, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to operational efficiency through standardized recipes, menus, and production procedures.

As a key member of the leadership team, the Executive Chef will also be involved in budgeting and controlling food and labor costs, maintaining high standards of food safety and sanitation, coordinating with procurement for timely ingredient sourcing, and staying current with emerging catering trends and culinary innovations. The role requires superior leadership qualities to mentor, train, and motivate a diverse culinary staff, excellent communication skills for cross-departmental collaboration, and strong organizational abilities for managing schedules and production timelines effectively. Proficiency in relevant computer software and financial management skills are essential for maximizing profitability and supporting the company’s continued growth. Joining M Culinary Concepts means becoming part of a passionate crew dedicated to excellence and innovation in catering. If you enjoy creating exceptional food experiences and leading high-performing teams in a rewarding and fun environment, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact in the culinary world.

Job Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management or related field preferred
Minimum of 7 years of professional culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or executive chef role in catering or events
Proven track record of successful culinary leadership in a fast-paced catering environment
Excellent knowledge of food safety standards and health regulations
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required
Strong physical stamina and ability to manage multiple events and tasks simultaneously
Must have valid food handler certification and necessary health and safety training

Job Qualifications

Superior leadership skills with the ability to mentor, train, and motivate a diverse culinary team
Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to collaborate across departments
Strong understanding of dietary requirements, including food allergies, and vegetarian/vegan diets
Creative problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt quickly to changing daily demands
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other computer software relevant to inventory and procurement systems
Extensive financial understanding, with experience managing budgets, food costs, labor costs, and maximizing profitability
Strong organizational and time management skills to ensure timely production execution and efficiency

Job Duties

Lead all culinary operations for catering events, daily production, and special event execution
Partner with Sales and Event Operations teams to design customized menus that align with client expectations, event objectives, and dietary requirements
Oversee all aspects of event culinary planning, including staffing, production schedules, logistics, food preparation, and on-site execution
Ensure exceptional food quality, presentation, consistency, and guest satisfaction across all catered events and daily operations
Develop and standardize recipes, menus, and production procedures to support operational efficiency and scalability
Manage culinary labor, scheduling, food costs, inventory, purchasing, and waste reduction initiatives
Lead, coach, mentor, and develop culinary team members while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
Collaborate with Procurement to ensure timely ordering and availability of high-quality ingredients and supplies
Maintain compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations
Stay current with industry trends, culinary innovation, and emerging catering concepts to continuously elevate the guest experience