Culinary Project Manager

Cotton • ,

8d

About The Position

Cotton Holdings, Inc. is seeking an experienced Culinary Project Manager to oversee high-volume culinary events, lead menu development, and manage kitchen operations from start to finish. The role combines hands-on cooking with management of large-scale projects, including budgeting, inventory control, and staff supervision. The manager helps ensure successful events while promoting innovation and high standards in food preparation and presentation.

The position includes responsibility for culinary planning and execution, cost and inventory controls, staff leadership, client communication, and coordination with internal teams and third-party vendors. It requires at least 10 years of professional culinary experience, particularly in high-volume events and kitchen operations. A culinary degree is preferred, or equivalent experience in a fast-paced kitchen. The role requires willingness to travel and adapt to changing schedules, including occasional work outside regular hours, and a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of professional culinary experience, including a strong background in high-volume events and kitchen operations.
• Expertise in food cost management, labor cost control, inventory management, and large-scale menu planning.
• Proven ability to manage teams, develop talent, and lead culinary projects from concept to completion.
• Willingness to travel and adapt to changing schedules to meet operational demands, including occasional work outside regular hours.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Nice To Haves

• Culinary degree, or equivalent experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage all culinary aspects of high-volume events, including menu planning, food preparation, kitchen staff supervision, and quality execution.
• Oversee food and labor costs to align with event budgets while maintaining quality standards.
• Create innovative, diverse menus tailored to client needs and coordinate their execution with the culinary team.
• Manage ordering and inventory control, and coordinate with vendors to ensure timely and accurate deliveries.
• Lead culinary operations from pre-event planning through post-event cleanup, including staffing, kitchen setup, and on-site client communication.
• Supervise and mentor culinary staff, supporting smooth event operations, adherence to timelines, and teamwork.
• Serve as the primary culinary contact for clients during events, addressing satisfaction, concerns, and last-minute adjustments.
• Coordinate with the Business Development team, kitchen managers, and third-party vendors on event details, including rentals and asset management.
• Manage large-scale, complex culinary events in demanding environments, ensuring execution from kitchen operations through the guest experience.

Benefits

• Growth opportunities and opportunities for advancement.
• Benefits package.
• Supportive team and collaborative, family-oriented culture.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed