Corporate Chef - Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Job Description

Job Description

Sun Holdings, founded in 1997, is a premier provider of management services to franchise ownership teams across popular U.S. restaurant brands, including Applebee's, Arby's, Burger King, Freebirds, Golden Corral, IHOP, McAlisters, Papa Johns, Popeyes, and Taco Bueno. With a portfolio of over 1,200 franchises, we are the second-largest franchisee organization in the U.S. We were awarded one of 2024 Americas Greatest Workplaces by Newsweek magazine! Sun Holdings is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We are seeking a talented and passionate Corporate Chef with expertise in authentic Mexican cuisine to lead and inspire our kitchen team. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of traditional and contemporary Mexican culinary techniques, ingredients, and flavors. The Chef will be responsible for menu development, SKU management, recipe management, costing, kitchen operations, team leadership, and ensuring a high standard of food quality and presentation. If you have a passion for Mexican cuisine and a desire to lead a team in creating memorable dining experiences, wed love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities :

1. Menu Development :

• Create and refine a menu showcasing authentic and innovative Mexican dishes.
• Source and incorporate traditional and seasonal ingredients to enhance menu offerings.
• Collaborate with management to align the menu with the restaurants concept and vision.

2. Kitchen Operations :

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency and adherence to health and safety standards.
• Maintain an organized and clean kitchen environment.
• Monitor inventory levels and manage food costs effectively.

3. Team Leadership :

• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff to ensure consistent food quality and preparation techniques.
• Foster a positive and collaborative kitchen culture.
• Schedule and supervise kitchen staff to ensure adequate coverage.
• Lead a team, and support new store openings, menu implementation, and vendor relationships.

4. Food Quality and Presentation :

• Ensure all dishes meet high standards of flavor, quality, and presentation.
• Innovate and adapt recipes to meet customer preferences and dietary needs.
• Conduct regular tastings and quality checks.

5. Compliance and Safety :

• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Implement and enforce kitchen policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular audits to maintain hygiene and operational standards.

Requirements :

• Culinary degree or equivalent training and certifications.
• Expertise in the following areas is required :

Menu planning and development expertise

• SKU management experience
• Back-office systems proficiency
• Recipe management / costing skills
• Strong knowledge of traditional Mexican cooking techniques, ingredients, and regional specialties.
• Familiarity with modern culinary techniques and fusion concepts involving Mexican cuisine.Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Passion for Mexican cuisine and a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus.

Work Environment : This role requires standing for extended periods, handling hot equipment, and working in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed is essential.