Executive Chef - Prime Carolina Coast

Create Dining Experiences Residents Look Forward To Every Day!

Prime Independent Living is seeking a talented, service-driven Executive Chef to lead our dining program and create exceptional culinary experiences for residents, families, and guests.

At Prime, dining is more than a meal-it's an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and enhance everyday life. As Culinary Director, you'll oversee all aspects of kitchen operations while setting the standard for quality, hospitality, creativity, and service. From developing resident-focused menus to mentoring team members and creating memorable dining experiences, you'll play a key role in shaping one of the most important aspects of community life.

If you're passionate about great food, strong leadership, and creating meaningful experiences through hospitality, we'd love to meet you!

Responsibilities

Culinary LeadershipKitchen Operations

• Oversee all daily kitchen operations to ensure exceptional quality, consistency, and service.

• Lead, mentor, and develop culinary team members while fostering a positive and collaborative culture.

• Establish and maintain high standards for food preparation, presentation, cleanliness, and execution.

• Ensure smooth and efficient operations across all meal services and dining experiences.

• Create a kitchen culture rooted in teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and hospitality.

Menu DevelopmentResident Experience

• Develop seasonal, resident-focused menus that balance quality, variety, nutrition, and resident preferences.

• Create memorable dining experiences that enhance resident satisfaction and engagement.

• Engage with residents regularly to gather feedback and continuously improve the dining program.

• Accommodate dietary needs, preferences, and special requests whenever possible.

• Partner with community leadership to support a hospitality-driven resident experience.

• Ensure every dining experience reflects the Prime commitment to service and quality.

Team DevelopmentCulture

• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, and coach culinary team members.

• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and service excellence.

• Support ongoing development and training opportunities for culinary staff.

• Lead by example and create an environment where team members can thrive.

• Build a positive and supportive workplace culture that encourages growth and retention.

FinancialOperational Management

• Manage food, labor, and operational costs while maintaining exceptional quality standards.

• Oversee purchasing, inventory management, and vendor relationships.

• Monitor budgets and identify opportunities for operational efficiency.

• Ensure proper product rotation, storage, and inventory controls.

• Maintain accurate records and support overall department performance goals.

Safety, ComplianceQuality Assurance

• Maintain compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and regulatory requirements.

• Ensure kitchen operations meet company standards and industry best practices.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.

• Lead ongoing quality assurance efforts and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Hold and maintain ServSafe Manager Certification.

Special EventsCommunity Collaboration

• Plan and execute holiday meals, themed dining experiences, special events, and community celebrations.

• Collaborate with other departments to support resident programs and community initiatives.

• Participate in community events and help create memorable experiences that bring residents together.

• Partner with leadership to continuously enhance the overall resident experience.

• Serve as a valued member of the community leadership team.

What We're Looking For

• Five or more years of experience as an Executive Chef, Culinary Director, Sous Chef, or other culinary leadership role.

• Experience in hospitality, restaurant, country club, resort, healthcare, or senior living environments preferred.

• Proven ability to lead, develop, and retain high-performing teams.

• Strong operational and financial management skills, including food cost, labor management, and inventory control.

• Experience with menu development and accommodating diverse dietary needs.

• ServSafe Manager Certification required.

• Thorough understanding of food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership abilities.

• Passion for hospitality and creating exceptional dining experiences.

• Genuine appreciation for serving older adults and enhancing quality of life through dining.

Why Prime?

At Prime Independent Living, we're creating communities where older adults can live well, live fully, and enjoy meaningful experiences every day. Our team members play a vital role in making that vision a reality.

If you're looking for an opportunity to make a difference, build relationships, and be part of something special, we'd love to meet you!