Executive Chef | Smoothie King Center New Orleans

New Orleans, LA, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Flexible

Weekend Shifts

Night Shifts

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Paid vacation

401k plan

Job Description

Legends Global is a distinguished leader in the live events industry, recognized globally for its comprehensive service offerings and strategic partnerships with some of the world’s most iconic venues and brands. Operating a vast network of 450 venues worldwide, Legends Global facilitates approximately 20,000 events annually, drawing in an impressive attendance of 165 million guests. The company specializes in delivering tailored, white-label solutions that encompass feasibility studies, consulting, owner’s representation, sales, partnerships, hospitality, merchandise, venue management, as well as content and booking for world-class live events and venues. This dedication to excellence is supported by an expert team and a dynamic, respectful culture that values innovation, collaboration, and bold action. Legends Global fosters a workplace environment that embraces inclusivity, authenticity, and career growth, positioning itself as a prime employer in the live events and hospitality sector. Joining Legends Global offers professionals the opportunity to be part of a unified, ambitious team dedicated to high performance and achievement in the entertainment and hospitality industries.

The Executive Chef role at Legends Global is a pivotal leadership position responsible for the culinary oversight of a major sports stadium or arena. This role demands a multifaceted approach, managing all facets of culinary operations, from innovative menu development to ensuring the highest standards in food production, staff management, and quality control across various concessions, premium suites, and event spaces. Serving in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, the Executive Chef must balance exceptional dining experiences with operational efficiency, strict adherence to food safety protocols, and effective cost control measures. The role requires a strategic thinker and an effective leader who can innovate to enhance customer satisfaction while managing complex logistics and financial responsibilities. The position involves close collaboration with other stadium management and event teams to ensure seamless culinary services tailored to diverse events such as sports games, concerts, and private functions. This is a full-time, on-site role located at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, LA, offering a competitive salary commensurate with experience along with a generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid vacation, and a 401k plan. This role reports to the Vice President of Operations and supervises a diverse team including sous chefs, kitchen managers, line cooks, and culinary staff. Overall, the Executive Chef at Legends Global not only influences the culinary direction of a high-profile venue but also plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall guest experience, maintaining high standards of food safety, and driving financial success within the stadium’s food service operations.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Proven experience in executive chef role within large, high-volume venues
Culinary degree or certification preferred
Ability to lead and manage diverse kitchen teams
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
Strong financial management capabilities
Excellent communication and collaboration skills
Capable of standing for extended periods
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Willingness to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays

Job Qualifications

Proven experience as an executive chef, preferably in high-volume venues such as stadiums, arenas, hotels, or large catering operations
Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred
Strong leadership and team management skills
Expertise in multi-outlet food service operations
Solid understanding of budgeting, cost controls, and inventory management
Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices
Ability to perform under pressure in fast-paced environments

Job Duties

Develop and execute innovative menus for concessions, VIP suites, restaurants, and special events
Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and taste across all food outlets
Adapt menus based on event type, seasonality, and customer preferences
Oversee kitchen operations for multiple locations within the stadium
Manage high-volume food production during games, concerts, and events
Coordinate food preparation and service timelines to meet event schedules
Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate kitchen staff and sous chefs
Schedule staff based on event needs and operational demand
Foster a collaborative and high-performance kitchen culture
Develop and manage food cost budgets and labor costs
Monitor inventory, ordering, and waste control to maximize profitability
Negotiate with vendors and maintain supplier relationships
Ensure compliance with local health regulations and food safety standards
Maintain cleanliness and sanitation across all kitchen areas
Implement and enforce HACCP and safety protocols
Collaborate with stadium management to enhance fan dining experiences
Respond to guest feedback and continuously improve service quality
Create signature dishes and specialty offerings to elevate brand reputation
Work closely with event planners and operations teams
Customize menus for corporate events, VIP hospitality, and private functions
Ensure seamless execution of large-scale culinary operations