Senior Living Dining Services Director / Executive Chef

Position Overview :

The Dining Service Director is responsible for overseeing the dining services in a senior living community, ensuring that residents receive nutritious, high-quality meals in a pleasant and safe dining environment. This role involves managing staff, planning menus, ensuring compliance with dietary needs, and creating a positive dining experience for residents. The Dining Service Director plays a key role in maintaining a high standard of food service while meeting the dietary requirements of seniors, including those with special health concerns.

Key Responsibilities :

Leadership & Staff Management :

Supervise, train, and manage dining services staff, including chefs, kitchen staff, servers, and dishwashers.

Conduct regular staff meetings, performance evaluations, and ensure ongoing training to maintain high standards of food safety, sanitation, and service.

Schedule and assign duties to staff members to ensure efficient meal service.

Promote a team-oriented work environment with clear communication and a focus on resident satisfaction.

Menu Planning & Food Preparation :

Plan, design, and execute balanced, nutritious, and appealing menus that meet the dietary needs and preferences of residents, including those with special diets such as diabetic, low-sodium, or vegetarian options.

Ensure meals are prepared and served in accordance with food safety and health standards.

Regularly evaluate and update menus to reflect seasonal ingredients, resident feedback, and nutritional standards.

Resident Satisfaction & Dining Experience :

Oversee the daily operations of dining rooms, ensuring timely, courteous, and professional service.

Interact with residents and their families regularly to gather feedback and address any dining concerns or requests.

Create a pleasant and welcoming dining atmosphere that enhances residents' dining experience.

Organize special events, theme nights, or celebrations as needed to engage residents and enhance the dining experience.

Dietary Requirements & Compliance :

Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local food safety, sanitation, and dietary regulations.

Work with healthcare professionals, including dietitians and nursing staff, to develop individualized meal plans for residents with specific dietary restrictions or health conditions.

Ensure that meal records and dietary documentation are maintained accurately and consistently.

Budgeting & Inventory Management :

Oversee the dining services budget, including managing food costs, staffing levels, and purchasing of supplies.

Monitor inventory levels of food, beverages, and kitchen supplies, ensuring stock levels are appropriate and cost-effective.

Collaborate with vendors to order and purchase quality food items, negotiating prices and contracts to stay within budget.

Health & Safety Standards :

Maintain high standards of food safety, cleanliness, and sanitation in accordance with local health regulations.

Ensure that kitchen and dining areas are well-maintained and meet all health and safety guidelines.

Conduct regular inspections and audits of kitchen operations to ensure compliance with safety and cleanliness protocols.

Qualifications :

Education & Experience :

Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or a related field preferred.

At least 3 years of experience in food service management, preferably in a senior living or healthcare setting.

Previous experience managing a team in a dining services or food service environment required.

Skills & Competencies :

Strong leadership and staff management abilities.

Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with residents, families, and staff.

Knowledge of dietary needs for seniors, including special diets and nutrition requirements.

Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Ability to work effectively under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.

Attention to detail, especially in food quality, presentation, and safety compliance.

Certifications :

Food Safety certification required (ServSafe or equivalent).

Additional certifications may be required depending on state / local regulations.]

Working Conditions :

Full-time position, with occasional evening or weekend shifts as needed for special events or peak service times.

Work primarily in a kitchen and dining room environment.

May involve lifting, standing for long periods, and working with kitchen equipment and chemicals.