Task Force Culinary Director

Key Responsibilities: Provide on-site culinary leadership during transitions, new openings, or when properties are without a permanent culinary leader. Uphold and implement brand standards, recipes, menu presentations, and operational SOPs. Execute training programs for culinary teams, ensuring knowledge transfer, consistency, and operational excellence. Lead or support kitchen operations including prep, service, inventory, and ordering during deployments. Collaborate with property leadership and corporate teams to identify and resolve operational challenges. Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP, Serv Safe).Support corporate initiatives such as menu rollouts, culinary audits, or seasonal updates. Identify culinary talent at the property level and support the onboarding and development of new culinary leaders. Complete post-deployment reporting and performance assessments.

Requirements: Culinary degree or equivalent formal culinary training preferred. Minimum 5-7 years of progressive culinary leadership experience, including Executive Chef-level roles. Prior experience in multi-unit, high-volume, or hotel/restaurant group environments strongly preferred. Experience in task force, transitional leadership, or new opening environments is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Strong culinary fundamentals and a deep understanding of diverse cuisines, techniques, and kitchen systems. Ability to lead teams with professionalism, urgency, and adaptability in fast-paced or ambiguous environments. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to collaborate across departments and levels. High level of organization, time management, and attention to detail. Willingness and ability to travel frequently (sometimes with short notice), with flexibility for extended stays. Proficient in inventory systems, ordering platforms, and standard kitchen management tools. Strong understanding of cost controls, food and labor metrics, and kitchen financial perforundefined