Lead Event Chef
29 days ago
Troy
Job DescriptionDescriptionThe Culinary Event Lead plays a critical role in the successful execution of off-premise catering events. This individual is responsible for leading culinary teams in the field, ensuring food quality, timing, organization, and overall execution meet company standards. The ideal candidate is a strong hands-on culinarian with proven experience in commercial kitchens and a passion for leadership, teamwork, and hospitality. This role requires excellent planning, communication, and people-management skills, along with the ability to thrive in fast-paced, ever-changing event environments. Key Responsibilities Event Execution & Leadership • Lead the culinary execution of off-premise catering events, ensuring food quality, presentation, timing, and service standards are met or exceeded, • Oversee on-site food preparation, finishing, service flow, and breakdown, • Manage kitchen timelines, menu flow, staffing structure, and efficient use of kitchen and event space, • Lead, manage, and motivate culinary event staff in a positive, respectful, and ethical manner, • Train and mentor team members on execution standards, food safety, and event procedures, • Review event menus, BEOs, timelines, and logistics in advance to ensure readiness, • Collaborate with Sales, Operations, and Front-of-House teams to ensure seamless event execution, • Prep food in the commissary kitchen on non-event days following standardized recipes and procedures, • Assist with production, packing, and organization of food and equipment for events, • Follow and enforce all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations, • Maintain clean, organized workspaces both in commissary and on-site, • Utilize electronic communication tools and event management systems effectively, • Learn and follow established SOPs while providing feedback for continuous improvement, • Minimum of 3+ years of experience in commercial kitchens, • Large kitchen, banquet, or off-premise catering experience strongly preferred, • 2- or 4-year culinary degree preferred, • Proven ability to lead, train, and manage teams, • Strong understanding of menu execution, event timing, kitchen flow, and logistics, • Excellent time management, organization, and communication skills, • Comfortable working in dynamic, fast-paced environments, • Proficiency with electronic communication and ability to learn new systems, • Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and team-first mindset Why Join UsWe offer a range of benefits for eligibles team members, including: · Health Coverage – Medical, Dental and Vision· Voluntary Life/AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Critical Illness· 401(k)· Paid Time Off· Wellness Programs· Additional Perks This position offers the opportunity to join a large, well-established catering company with an outstanding team culture, innovative systems, and proven standard operating procedures. We take pride in delivering exceptional events while maintaining a fun, respectful, and supportive work environment. The right candidate will be admired by peers, trusted by leadership, and empowered to grow within our organization. #LI-AB1 #IND102