Exec Sous Chef

Sonesta Philadelphia, PA•Philadelphia, PA

About The Position

Manage the operation of the kitchen(s) including food preparation and quality, physical maintenance, and inventory functions to ensure hotel quality standards and revenue goals are met and food and supply costs are controlled. Adhere to federal, state and local regulations concerning health, safety, or other compliance requirements, as well as brand standards and local policies and procedures.

Requirements

Completion of a degree or certificate in culinary arts.
Five+ years of experience as a chef, with at least one year in a supervisory capacity, or equivalent combination of education and culinary/kitchen operations experience.
Strong communication, organizational and problem solving skills are a must.
Alcohol awareness certification and/or food service permit or valid health/food handler card as required by local or state government agency.
May be required to work nights, weekends, and/or holidays.

Nice To Haves

Full service hotel experience preferred.
Experience in a union environment preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage the day-to-day operations and assignments of the kitchen staff, communicate goals, and assign/prioritize work. Communicate and enforce policies and procedures with all staff.
Recommend and initiate salary, disciplinary, or other staffing/human resources-related actions in accordance with company rules and policies. Alert management of potentially serious issues.
Ensure all staff is properly trained and have the tools and equipment needed to effectively carry out their job functions.
Ensure that all menu items are prepared and presented according to established recipes and standards.
Develop menu design and concepts for all food and/or bar outlets, and catering events. Monitor competitors and industry trends.
Maintain updated and accurate costing and documentation of all dishes prepared and sold in the food and beverage operations.
Establish procedures and timeframes for conducting inventory. Determine minimum and maximum stocks for all food, material, and kitchen equipment.
Maintain procedures to (1) ensure the security and proper storage of food and beverage products, kitchen inventory and equipment, (2) replenish supplies, inventory, uniforms, etc. in a timely and efficient manner, and (3) to minimize waste and pilferage.
Ensure that all kitchen equipment, including but not limited to sinks, stoves, grills, hoods, coolers, freezers, etc., are in proper operational condition and are cleaned on a regular basis. Ensure that all kitchen areas and related storerooms are cleaned, mopped, and properly stocked according to anticipated business volume and in accordance with sanitation and health department requirements. Notify Engineering immediately of any maintenance and repair needs.
Participate in the preparation of the hotel’s annual budget and the setting of departmental goals.
Promote teamwork and quality service through daily communication and coordination with other departments. Key departmental contacts include Sales and Marketing, Catering, Banquets, Maintenance, and Guest Services. Assist sales, catering and banquet staff with banquets, parties and other special events.
Interact with outside contacts: Guests – to ensure their total satisfaction Vendors – to order supplies and equipment Health Department and other regulatory agencies – regarding safety matters and kitchen inspections Other contacts as needed (professional organizations, community groups, local media)
May serve as Manager on Duty or perform other duties as assigned