Culinary Director/Executive Chef – Senior Living

Highgrove at Tates Creek | Lexington, Kentucky

Are you an experienced culinary professional who enjoys creating exceptional dining experiences and leading a high-performing team? Do you believe that great food brings people together and plays an important role in quality of life?

Highgrove at Tates Creek is seeking an Executive Chef to oversee all culinary operations within our vibrant senior living community in Lexington, Kentucky. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate leader who is committed to delivering outstanding food, exceptional service, and an elevated dining experience for residents every day.

Why Join Highgrove at Tates Creek?

• Lead the culinary vision for a premier senior living community
• Work in a resident-centered environment where hospitality is a top priority
• Collaborate with a supportive leadership team that values innovation and teamwork
• Enjoy the opportunity to introduce new menu ideas and seasonal offerings
• Make a meaningful impact through memorable dining experiences that enhance residents' daily lives

Position Summary

The Executive Chef is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the community's culinary department, including food preparation, menu development, inventory management, budgeting, staffing, food safety, and overall dining quality.

This leader will foster a positive kitchen culture while ensuring residents receive consistently delicious, nutritious meals and outstanding customer service.

Responsibilities

• Direct the daily operations of the culinary department
• Develop creative, well-balanced menus that meet resident preferences and nutritional needs
• Ensure exceptional food quality, presentation, and service standards
• Manage food purchasing, inventory, and vendor relationships
• Monitor departmental budgets and control food and labor costs
• Maintain compliance with all sanitation, food safety, and regulatory requirements
• Recruit, train, coach, and develop kitchen team members
• Create staff schedules and promote accountability and teamwork
• Partner with community leadership to continuously enhance the dining experience
• Build positive relationships with residents and families by actively seeking feedback and accommodating dietary needs

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of culinary leadership experience
• Previous experience as an Executive Chef or Culinary Director preferred
• Senior living, hospitality, healthcare, country club, or upscale restaurant experience strongly preferred
• Thorough understanding of food safety regulations and commercial kitchen operations
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a culinary team
• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills
• Culinary degree or professional certification is a plus

Join Our Team

If you're ready to bring your culinary expertise to a community where your leadership and creativity will make a lasting impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today by sending your resume to Alexis Basler at abasler@leaderstat.com.

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