Job Description

Job Title:

Executive Chef

Department - Food & Beverage

Industry: Hospitality

Location: St. Catharines, ON


Position Type: Full-time


Reports to: Property General Manager - Operations - HR Manager

About Heart of Niagara Hotels:

Heart of Niagara Hotels is a premier hospitality group located in the breathtaking Niagara region. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional guest experiences with a focus on comfort, entertainment experiences, and outstanding culinary offerings. Our kitchens are the heart of our hotels, and we are seeking a dedicated and experienced Executive Chef to join our dynamic team.

Position Summary:

We are looking for an Executive Chef with strong leadership skills, banquet experience, and a proven ability to manage a fast-paced kitchen. The Executive Chef will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the kitchen operations, ensuring the highest quality of food and service. They will also play a pivotal role in managing food and labor costs while maintaining our high standards of food excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Culinary Leadership:

Lead the culinary team, providing guidance, training, and mentorship to ensure consistent, high-quality food production and presentation. Create a culture of culinary excellence and innovation.

Menu Development:

Collaborate with the restaurant management team to develop and update menus that align with the restaurant's concept and are creatively designed to satisfy guest expectations.

Quality Control:

Oversee the consistency and quality of all dishes, ensuring they meet our premium standards. Conduct regular tastings and quality checks.

Cost Management:

Manage food and labor costs effectively while maintaining the highest standards. Implement cost control measures and develop strategies to optimize kitchen expenses.

Banquet Experience:

Plan and execute banquet and special event menus. Ensure the successful execution of banquets, private events, and catering services.

Personnel Management:

Lead a kitchen brigade of up to 50 culinary professionals, including chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff. Supervise, train, and motivate the team to perform at their best.

Hygiene and Safety:

Maintain a safe and clean kitchen environment. Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations, including food handling and sanitation standards.

Vendor Relations:

Manage relationships with food suppliers, ensuring the quality, consistency, and cost-effectiveness of all ingredients.

Scheduling:

Create and manage kitchen staff schedules to meet the needs of the restaurant, banquets, and events.

Innovation:

Stay updated on culinary trends, new techniques, and ingredients to continuously elevate the restaurant's offerings.

Qualifications:

Proven experience as an Executive Chef or similar leadership role in a high-volume, premium casual dining environment. Banquet and special events experience is essential Strong financial acumen with a track record of managing food and labour costs Proficiency in menu development and a creative approach to culinary offerings Exceptional leadership and team management skills Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Culinary degree of relevant certifications are a plus

How to Apply:

If you are a passionate, creative, and experienced Executive Chef with the skills and attributes we're looking for, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you're the ideal candidate for the position.





Heart of Niagara is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.





Join us at Heart of Niagara Hotels and be a part of a team dedicated to excellence in hospitality and culinary arts!