Executive Chef (FT Salaried, AIA, On-Site, Xenia, OH)

Dayton, OH, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Salary

Exact $52,000.00

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

Job Description

Athletes in Action is a dynamic ministry of Cru that leverages the platform of sports to help individuals know and follow Jesus Christ. With a mission that transcends traditional food service, this organization operates a Sports Complex and Retreat Center where hospitality is central to its impact. Serving athletes, coaches, and guests from across the country and around the world, Athletes in Action provides a unique environment where guests can grow personally and spiritually through camps, retreats, conferences, competitions, and other events. The ministry's commitment to Christ-centered service is evident in every detail, and the culinary team plays a critical role in the overall guest experience, creating atmospheres of care, excellence, and memorable hospitality.

The role being offered is a full-time Culinary Director position located onsite in Xenia, OH, with a competitive annual salary of $52,000. This role requires a servant-hearted leader who is passionate about crafting exceptional dining experiences while mentoring and developing their team. Balancing creativity with operational excellence, the Culinary Director will oversee all culinary operations across multiple venues within the complex, including the Sports Complex, Retreat Center, and Wooden Family Fieldhouse. With an emphasis on quality, safety, and guest satisfaction, this leader will be hands-on in menu planning, food production, and service delivery. They will also manage budgets, supervise staff, and engage in ongoing development efforts to foster a positive team culture.

In addition to these operational responsibilities, the Culinary Director will actively contribute to the spiritual culture of Athletes in Action, modeling Christ-centered leadership and supporting the ministry’s mission. Candidates who thrive in fast-paced environments, balance innovation with cost management, and possess a passion for serving others will find this position rewarding. Their leadership will directly impact the quality of care provided to guests and help advance a mission that combines culinary expertise with meaningful ministry work. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a collaborative team committed to excellence, hospitality, and a purpose-driven mission that uses sports as a platform for spiritual growth.

Job Requirements

Minimum 2 year or associate degree with culinary specialization
Preferred 4 year or bachelors degree with culinary specialization
Minimum 2 years experience in industry and culinary management in an up-market P&L environment
Equivalent combination of education and experience

Job Qualifications

Associate degree with culinary specialization
Preference for bachelor's degree with culinary specialization
Minimum 2 years experience in industry and culinary management in an up-market P&L environment
Equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Job Duties

Lead all culinary and food service operations across the Sports Complex, Retreat Center, and Wooden Family Fieldhouse, ensuring exceptional quality and guest experiences
Oversee menu planning, recipe development, food costing, and production strategies that balance creativity, quality, and financial stewardship
Manage food and beverage budgets, inventory, purchasing, and vendor relationships to maintain cost-effective and efficient operations
Recruit, train, develop, schedule, and lead a team of culinary professionals, fostering a positive culture built on teamwork, excellence, and service
Provide hands-on leadership in the kitchen, supporting meal preparation, execution, plating, and service as needed
Establish and maintain culinary standards, ensuring consistency in food quality, presentation, and production processes
Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, equipment maintenance, and ServSafe requirements while maintaining inspection-ready facilities
Coach team members through performance management, staff development, recognition, and ongoing training opportunities
Collaborate with internal departments to support retreats, camps, conferences, special events, and concession operations
Participate in leadership and planning meetings, helping shape food service strategies and operational goals
Explore and implement new culinary techniques, ideas, and best practices that enhance the guest experience and operational effectiveness
Contribute to the spiritual culture of the ministry by modeling Christ-centered leadership and supporting the mission of Athletes in Action