As the Kitchen Manager at Wayfinder Newport, you will be a key leadership figure in our culinary team, assisting with overseeing the planning, organization, and execution of all culinary operations. The successful candidate will bring a creative culinary vision, strong leadership skills, and a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Culinary Leadership:
• Provide strategic direction and creative vision for the culinary team.
• Oversee menu execution, ensuring a balance between innovation and guest preferences.
2. Team Management:
• Recruit, train, and mentor a team of chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff.
• Foster a collaborative and positive work environment that encourages creativity and excellence.
3. Menu Planning and Execution:
• Develop and update menus for all dining outlets, taking into consideration seasonal ingredients and culinary trends.
• Ensure consistent execution of high-quality dishes that meet or exceed guest expectations.
4. Quality Control:
• Establish and maintain rigorous standards for food quality, presentation, and taste.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
5. Budget Management:
• Develop and manage budgets for the culinary department.
• Monitor food costs, implement cost-control measures, and optimize purchasing strategies.
6. Vendor Relationships:
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.
7. Training and Development:
• Implement ongoing training programs for kitchen staff to enhance culinary skills and maintain hygiene standards.
• Identify opportunities for professional development within the culinary team.
8. Innovation and Creativity:
• Stay abreast of culinary trends and industry best practices.
• Introduce innovative cooking techniques, ingredients, and presentation styles.
9. Collaboration with Food & Beverage Director:
• Collaborate with the Food & Beverage Director to align culinary offerings with the overall vision and goals of the hotel.

• Proven experience as a Chef in a luxury hotel or upscale restaurant.
• Culinary degree or equivalent certification.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Excellent knowledge of culinary trends, techniques, and ingredients.
• Ability to manage and inspire a diverse team.
• Creative and innovative approach to menu development.
• Experience with banquet preparation and service delivery
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items up to 50 pounds.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Note: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary.

Wayfinder Newport is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.