RHEA Recruitment, an international recruitment agency specializing in hospitality and gastronomy, is looking for a:

Executive Chef – NYC

Establishment: A true institution for lovers of high-end Mediterranean (Greek) cuisine, this iconic restaurant offers exceptionally fresh products, with carefully selected seafood and fish, simply prepared to enhance their natural flavors. The elegant and refined ambiance, combined with impeccable service, provides an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of New York.

Our client is seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations of a prestigious high-volume fine dining restaurant in NYC. This role is ideal for a chef with strong leadership skills, deep knowledge of cuisine and financial management, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and consistency.

As the Executive Chef, you will oversee a large and dynamic team, ensuring flawless execution across all aspects of kitchen operations—from menu development and cost control to budgeting and workforce management. If you thrive in a high-energy luxury dining environment and excel in both the creative and administrative aspects of the kitchen, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership & Execution:

• Oversee all culinary operations, ensuring impeccable execution and presentation of every dish.
• Develop, refine, and design a menu that aligns with the brand identity while maximizing profitability.
• Supervise daily and seasonal specials, ensuring creativity and alignment with guest expectations.
• Maintain strict quality control and uphold the highest standards in taste, presentation, and consistency.

Financial & Operational Management:

• Manage food and labor costs, ensuring financial efficiency without compromising quality.
• Oversee menu costing, P&L forecasting, and budgeting to optimize profitability and cost control.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate contracts, and source top-quality ingredients.
• Analyze financial reports and adjust strategies to enhance kitchen operations and margins.

Kitchen & Team Management:

• Lead and develop a large, diverse kitchen team, fostering a culture of professionalism and excellence.
• Handle scheduling, hiring, training, and performance evaluations in accordance with HR protocols.
• Implement and uphold strict health and food safety standards, ensuring full regulatory compliance.
• Maintain a well-organized, efficient, and hygienic kitchen environment.

Strategic & Administrative Execution:

• Establish and enforce standard operating procedures for the kitchen.
• Work closely with senior management and leadership teams to align the culinary vision with brand goals.
• Ensure smooth communication between the back-of-house and front-of-house teams to enhance the guest experience.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef in a high-volume fine dining restaurant or luxury hospitality establishment for at least five years.
• Strong financial acumen, including expertise in P&L management, menu costing, and forecasting.
• In-depth knowledge of food cost controls, labor management, and kitchen efficiency strategies.
• Excellent team leadership skills, with the ability to manage and inspire a large kitchen brigade.
• Mastery of HR protocols, including hiring, scheduling, and staff development.
• Expertise in health and food safety compliance, ensuring strict adherence to industry regulations.
• Strong negotiation skills with suppliers and experience in sourcing high-quality ingredients.
• A balance of culinary creativity and business strategy, ensuring the restaurant’s ongoing success.

Benefits

• Be part of a world-renowned fine dining brand known for excellence and prestige.
• Competitive compensation package, including performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to lead a top-tier kitchen team in one of New York’s premier dining establishments.
• Work with the best—access to premium ingredients, top-tier suppliers, and an elite clientele.
• Career growth opportunities within a brand that values leadership and innovation.

Conditions:

• Bilingual in English
• Salary: $110,000 – $140,000/year (depending on profile)
• Visa sponsored by the company (O1 or E2)
• Minimum contract: 3 years
• Start date: ASAP (visa processing time: 1 to 3 months)

If you’re an experienced Executive Chef looking for an exciting new challenge in NYC, send us your CV, reference letters, photo portfolio, or Instagram account to rhearecrutement@gmail.com.