Executive Chef

Position: Executive Chef

Reports To: Director of Food & Beverage

Job Summary:

The Executive Chef is the creative and operational leader of the culinary team, responsible for driving exceptional dining experiences across Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario’s three distinct food and beverage outlets: the lively Sessions Restaurant, the sophisticated 1913 speakeasy, and the dynamic Lobby Bar. Reporting directly to the Director of Food & Beverage, the Executive Chef will develop and execute menus that reflect the Hard Rock brand’s elevated and innovative culinary standards while maintaining operational excellence. This role demands a passion for creativity, impeccable attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering an extraordinary guest experience.

Hours of Work:
This is a full-time position with flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by business needs.

Executive Chef – Job Description

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

· Culinary Innovation & Menu Development:

• Create and oversee innovative, high-quality menus that celebrate the Hard Rock brand while catering to diverse guest preferences across all three outlets.
• Infuse culinary offerings with local and seasonal ingredients to elevate the dining experience and connect guests with the region.
• Ensure consistency in presentation and taste to meet Hard Rock’s elevated standards and guest expectations.
• Collaborate with the Food & Beverage team to craft menus that complement beverage offerings and maximize revenue opportunities.

· Operational Leadership:

• Lead the culinary team to ensure seamless daily operations, from food preparation to plate execution.
• Develop and enforce kitchen policies and procedures, focusing on cleanliness, safety, and compliance with all health regulations.
• Oversee inventory management, food cost control, and purchasing to maintain financial goals.
• Implement systems to ensure the highest standards of quality, consistency, and efficiency in food production.

· Team Development & Culture:

• Recruit, train, and mentor a passionate culinary team, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Provide ongoing feedback and performance evaluations to inspire excellence and encourage growth within the team.
• Lead pre-shift meetings and maintain clear communication with front-of-house teams to ensure alignment on guest experience goals.

· Guest Experience:

• Be present in dining spaces during peak service times to engage with guests and gather feedback.
• Partner with the Director of Food & Beverage to ensure the dining experience is harmonized across outlets, aligning with Hard Rock’s iconic service philosophy.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to feature signature dishes and create buzz around Hard Rock’s culinary offerings.

· Preopening & Brand Integration:

• Play a pivotal role in the hotel’s preopening phase, establishing operational frameworks and ensuring all outlets are set up for success.
• Incorporate the Hard Rock brand ethos into culinary operations, ensuring a seamless guest experience that reflects the property’s identity.
• Support the design and layout of kitchen facilities, ensuring an efficient and functional workspace.

· Financial & Operational Oversight:

• Drive departmental financial performance through effective labor, waste, and cost management.
• Analyze sales data and guest feedback to make informed decisions on menu adjustments and offerings.
• Partner with vendors to negotiate contracts that maximize quality and value

Qualifications:

· Minimum 8 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role within upscale or luxury hotel or restaurant environments.

· Degree or diploma in culinary arts or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

· Strong background in menu development, food cost management, and kitchen operations.

· Passion for creating memorable dining experiences with a track record of innovation and excellence.

· Preopening experience is an asset, especially within a high-profile or branded property.

· Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy environment while maintaining attention to detail.

· Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop a team.

· Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Hard Rock Hotel London Ontario is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Accommodations will be made available upon request for applicants with disabilities to enable them to participate in the selection process. If you require assistance or a reasonable accommodation in completing the application materials or any aspect of the selection process, please contact us at careers@hrhlondonontario.com.

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday
• Morning shift
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person