Executive Chef JN -042026-174396
Goodwin Recruiting, Charlotte, NC, United States
We are seeking a dynamic and creative Executive Chef to lead the culinary vision of a well-established restaurant in Charlotte. This is a unique opportunity for a chef who thrives on innovation, menu development, and building a strong, energized kitchen culture.
Culinary Leadership & Innovation
Lead menu development with a focus on creativity, seasonality, and innovation
Refresh and evolve the restaurant’s culinary identity
Introduce new techniques, flavors, and presentation styles
Maintain consistency, quality, and brand standards
Team Development & Culture
Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing kitchen team
Create a positive, accountable, and collaborative culture
Train and develop staff on techniques, standards, and procedures
Lead by example with a strong floor/kitchen presence
Operations & Execution
Oversee all kitchen operations, including prep, execution, and service
Establish and improve systems, processes, and kitchen procedures
Ensure food safety, sanitation, and compliance standards are met
Manage inventory, ordering, and cost controls
Financial Performance
Maintain food cost, labor cost, and waste control targets
Drive profitability through smart menu engineering and sourcing
Collaborate with ownership/management on budgeting and forecasting
Qualifications
3–5+ years of experience as an Executive Chef
Proven experience in menu development and concept refresh
Strong leadership and team‑building skills
Passion for culinary creativity and innovation
Solid understanding of kitchen systems, cost control, and operations
Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary: $100,000 – $120,000
Bonus Potential
Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
401(k)
Paid Time Off
Growth opportunity with a forward-thinking ownership group
Ideal Candidate Profile
A trend‑aware, creative chef who brings fresh ideas
A hands‑on leader who builds strong teams and culture
Someone who can balance creativity with execution and profitability
Passionate about elevating a concept while maintaining consistency
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Culinary Leadership & Innovation
Lead menu development with a focus on creativity, seasonality, and innovation
Refresh and evolve the restaurant’s culinary identity
Introduce new techniques, flavors, and presentation styles
Maintain consistency, quality, and brand standards
Team Development & Culture
Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing kitchen team
Create a positive, accountable, and collaborative culture
Train and develop staff on techniques, standards, and procedures
Lead by example with a strong floor/kitchen presence
Operations & Execution
Oversee all kitchen operations, including prep, execution, and service
Establish and improve systems, processes, and kitchen procedures
Ensure food safety, sanitation, and compliance standards are met
Manage inventory, ordering, and cost controls
Financial Performance
Maintain food cost, labor cost, and waste control targets
Drive profitability through smart menu engineering and sourcing
Collaborate with ownership/management on budgeting and forecasting
Qualifications
3–5+ years of experience as an Executive Chef
Proven experience in menu development and concept refresh
Strong leadership and team‑building skills
Passion for culinary creativity and innovation
Solid understanding of kitchen systems, cost control, and operations
Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary: $100,000 – $120,000
Bonus Potential
Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
401(k)
Paid Time Off
Growth opportunity with a forward-thinking ownership group
Ideal Candidate Profile
A trend‑aware, creative chef who brings fresh ideas
A hands‑on leader who builds strong teams and culture
Someone who can balance creativity with execution and profitability
Passionate about elevating a concept while maintaining consistency
#J-18808-Ljbffr