Mercy Retirement and Care Center - Executive Chef / Director of Culinary

Transforming Age•Oakland, CA

47d•$110,000 - $120,000•Onsite

About The Position

Mercy Retirement & Care Center is seeking a visionary Executive Chef/Director of Culinary Services to lead their culinary team. This role is responsible for creating an exceptional hospitality experience through artisan cuisine and personalized service. The position combines culinary artistry with leadership principles, fostering a culture of emotional intelligence, collaboration, and excellence. The Director ensures that every dining experience reflects creativity, warmth, and a commitment to the highest standards of quality and guest satisfaction. Mercy Retirement & Care Center has a long history of providing senior care services, including assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services, on a lush campus in Oakland.

Requirements

High school diploma or the equivalent education, training and experience.
Minimum of five years’ experience as Executive Chef, including administration and management of food service programs.
Expertise in artisan cuisine, menu development, and contemporary culinary trends.
Responsible to stay current in health nutrition trends and diets offered per Policy and Procedure.
Advanced knowledge of local Health Department, OSHA, state regulations.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite products.
Strong communication skills (oral and written) in the English language.
Must hold current state-required sanitation (Safe Food Handling and/or Certified Food Manager) certification/license.
Completion of a background check.

Nice To Haves

Culinary degree from an accredited school preferred.
Senior living community experience preferred.
Ability to communicate in Spanish preferred.
CPR/First Aid certification may be required per title 22.
Additional screenings (drug, fingerprint, TB, physical) may be required per state/local guidelines.

Responsibilities

Champion a guest-centric culture that prioritizes personalized service, warmth, and memorable dining experiences.
Design and implement innovative, seasonal menus that celebrate craftsmanship, fresh ingredients, and culinary trends while meeting dietary and regulatory requirements.
Lead with empathy and authenticity, cultivating an environment of trust, respect, and professional growth. Mentor and inspire staff through advanced leadership strategies and emotional intelligence practices.
Maintain impeccable standards of cleanliness, presentation, and organization, ensuring every detail reflects a commitment to hospitality.
Work closely with the VP of Culinary and peer Culinary Directors for the commitment to “The best idea wins”.
Develop and manage budgets with precision, balancing creativity with fiscal responsibility.
Build meaningful connections with residents by completing table-touches, actively seeking feedback to enhance culinary offerings and overall satisfaction.
Collaborate with trusted purveyors to source premium ingredients and artisan products that elevate the dining experience.
Demonstrate mastery in cooking techniques, presentation, and efficiency, setting the benchmark for culinary excellence.
Align culinary services with organizational mission, vision, and values, driving innovation and continuous improvement.
Responsible for active participation in the planning, preparation and execution of meals to include working on production line and prep kitchen.
Leadership of employee incentive, retention and training programs.
Responsible to maintain a safe work environment for all team members.