Executive Chef

Executive Chef Opportunity at Kent Country Club

Kent Country Club, the oldest country club in Michigan and one of Grand Rapids' most respected institutions, is seeking a visionary and passionate Executive Chef to lead and elevate the Club’s culinary experience. This is an exciting opportunity for a talented culinary professional to join a dynamic leadership team at a club with a rich history, dedicated membership, and commitment to excellence.

ABOUT KENT COUNTRY CLUB

Founded in 1896, Kent Country Club is a private, member-owned club nestled on 137 picturesque acres just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids. Known for its elegant yet comfortable atmosphere, Kent offers its members a vibrant social calendar, a classic 18-hole Donald Ross-designed golf course, racquet sports, aquatics, and a range of dining experiences from casual to formal.

Kent’s food and beverage program is a cornerstone of the member experience, with offerings that range from intimate wine dinners and holiday buffets to poolside meals and elegant banquets. The club is poised to continue enhancing its culinary identity and is seeking a leader who will build on these traditions while introducing fresh, creative ideas.

EXECUTIVE CHEF POSITION OVERVIEW

The Executive Chef reports to the General Manager and works closely with the Food & Beverage Manager and other department heads. This leader is responsible for all culinary operations, including a la carte dining, banquets, events, and staff dining. They will develop seasonal menus, standardize recipes, lead a team of culinary professionals, and ensure the highest standards of quality, consistency, safety, and service are met.

The Executive Chef will also be a strategic partner in budgeting, staffing, and food cost management, and a cultural leader who cultivates a positive kitchen environment and inspires excellence across the team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Team Development

Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate kitchen team including Sous Chef, Pastry Chef, and Line Cooks.

Foster a culture of collaboration, respect, creativity, and excellence.

Provide regular training and mentorship to support career development.

Promote open communication and teamwork between culinary and front-of-house departments.

Culinary Excellence

Create and execute innovative, seasonal, and member-driven menus for all outlets and events.

Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, and portioning.

Oversee food purchasing, production, and plating standards.

Stay current on culinary trends and techniques.

Financial & Operational Management

Plan and manage department budgets including food, labor, and equipment.

Maintain food and labor cost goals through careful planning, forecasting, and inventory management.

Monitor kitchen cleanliness and compliance with health and safety standards.

Implement safety and sanitation training for all culinary staff.

Member Experience

Engage with members to understand preferences and enhance satisfaction.

Periodically visit dining areas and attend member events to build relationships.

Lead tasting panels and contribute to wine pairing selections with F&B Manager.

Curate dining experiences that reflect member feedback and evolving tastes.

IDEAL CANDIDATE CHARACTERISTICS

A passionate leader who thrives in a team-oriented environment.

A strategic thinker who combines creativity with operational discipline.

A mentor who empowers and develops others.

Highly organized and detail-oriented.

Member-focused with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts and/other Hospitality Management degree and eight years food

production and management experience; or

15 years relevant experience; or any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Food Safety Certification required; ACF or Pro Chef certification preferred.

Experience managing multiple dining venues and banquet operations.

Demonstrated experience with budgeting, food costing, and labor management.

Technologically proficient with kitchen and inventory software systems.

SALARY & BENEFITS

Kent Country Club offers a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience, including:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) plan

Continuing education and professional development opportunities

Annual bonus potential

TO APPLY

Please submit your resume and a thoughtful cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the position to:

Ward Sutton, General Manager, Kent Country Club

Subject line: Executive Chef Application – Kent Country Club