Director of Culinary Services

Brightview Senior Living, LLC•Paramus, NJ

About The Position

The Dining Services Director at a Brightview Senior Living community leads the day-to-day dining services operation and serves as a champion and coach to dining associates and an advocate for residents. The role is responsible for delivering exceptional service, delicious food, and appealing dining options. The position is for Brightview Joy's Farm, which is scheduled to open in April 2027. The Director builds, develops, and manages the community’s dietary associates and establishes communication with team members, residents, family members, and guests to support excellent care and nutrition. The Director is visible and approachable during meal service, engages with residents about their dining experience, and solicits feedback from residents and families on menus, meals, and overall satisfaction. The role also supports the dining services budget, vendor relationships, upkeep and safety of kitchen and dining areas, and meal preparation. The Director collaborates with other departments on community marketing and public relations and may take part in special projects and assignments supporting other Brightview communities. This is a community leadership team role with the opportunity to positively affect residents’ ability to live an active, vibrant life.

Requirements

At least 2–4 years of food service management experience in the hospitality field, such as country clubs or banquets.
Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a large, diverse group of associates, from dishwashers to chefs.
Current Safe Serve or other relevant certification.
Demonstrated food preparation experience.
Ability to organize and manage multiple priorities.
Ability to plan and manage a budget.
Ability to analyze reports.
Moderate computer skills in the standard Microsoft suite.
Ability to communicate effectively in English.
Positive attitude, enthusiasm, and energy.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred, with an educational focus in culinary, hospitality, or food management.

Responsibilities

Build, develop, and manage the community’s dietary associates.
Establish a communication plan involving team members, residents, family members, and guests to support excellent care and nutrition.
Maintain a visible and approachable presence during meal service and engage with residents to ensure a positive dining experience.
Solicit feedback from residents and families about menu preferences, dining experiences, and meal satisfaction.
Assist in developing and maintaining the dining services budget.
Develop vendor relationships.
Ensure kitchen and dining areas are properly maintained, clean, and safe.
Work with the team to prepare meals.
Collaborate with other departments to support community marketing and public relations.
Serve on special projects and assignments supporting other Brightview communities.