Executive Chef - $130K base salary range at Gecko Hospitality VA/DC Arlington, VA

Gecko Hospitality is a nationally recognized hospitality recruiting firm named to Forbes list of America’s Best Recruiting Firms. Established with a passion for connecting top talent to exceptional opportunities in the hospitality sector, Gecko Hospitality offers an extensive selection of roles across multiple segments including restaurants, catering, grocery stores, corporate dining, senior living, healthcare foodservice, K-12 foodservice, and higher education foodservice. With a dedicated team of over 120 hospitality experts and a vast national network encompassing 80 regional offices throughout the United States and Canada, Gecko Hospitality is uniquely positioned to serve as a premier resource for both job seekers and employers in the hospitality industry. The company is widely respected for its deep industry relationships, unmatched expertise in hospitality career advancement, and a commitment to delivering professional and confidential recruitment services to candidates and clients alike.

Within this esteemed environment, the Executive Chef position at Gecko Hospitality represents a high-profile leadership opportunity based in Arlington, Virginia. This role is centered on leading culinary operations for a new French brasserie-inspired restaurant concept under the direction of a reputable parent company known for its collection of boutique restaurant brands across multiple states. With a base salary range of $120,000 to $140,000 plus bonus and incentive opportunities, this role offers attractive compensation aligned with the candidate’s exceptional skills and experience.

The Executive Chef will be at the helm of managing all kitchen operations and culinary initiatives, ensuring a seamless, consistent output of superior culinary experiences. The successful candidate will excel in planning, sourcing, and executing a premier meat program specializing in prime grade steaks that surpass guest expectations. Experience managing a high-volume kitchen capable of servicing up to 1,000 covers daily without compromising quality is essential, alongside a demonstrated ability to lead a large back-of-house team comprising up to 70 culinary professionals. Financial acumen is critical, with responsibilities including oversight of food costs, labor budgets, and overall kitchen profitability, necessitating a strategic and analytical approach.

This role is tailored for a driven and innovative chef with proven leadership skills and a passion for culinary excellence. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of the Washington, DC dining culture and clientele, leveraging local expertise to enhance the restaurant’s reputation and success. The position also offers significant growth potential, with clear pathways to Director-level advancement within a rapidly expanding and dynamic organization.

The role emphasizes not only culinary prowess but also creative leadership, operational management, and the capacity to inspire and mentor a diverse team. Candidates who are motivated to make a substantive impact on upscale dining through innovation and operational excellence will find this opportunity rewarding. The company fosters a work-life balance designed to support the well-being and professional flourishing of its chefs, complemented by a comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare, generous paid time off, and vacation.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their resumes confidentially to Tom Bull at Gecko Hospitality, presenting a unique chance to join a respected organization that values excellence, innovation, and leadership in the culinary field. This role invites passionate culinary professionals to shape the future of fine dining in Arlington, VA, within a supportive and growth-focused environment.