Executive Chef

Compass Group•Poolesville, MD

21d•$110,000 - $125,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Crossvines isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a destination. Nestled in the scenic countryside of Poolesville, Maryland, this unique hospitality experience brings together a winery, event venue, and restaurant designed to celebrate food, community, and craftsmanship. Think expansive views, local partnerships, and a guest experience that feels both elevated and welcoming. As Executive Chef, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the property's culinary identity, designing menus, building a team, and creating moments guests remember long after the meal ends. Supported by Restaurant Associates’ culture of innovation and excellence, you’ll have the resources of a premier hospitality organization while maintaining the creative freedom and ownership of an independent concept. For chefs who want to lead, create, and build something meaningful, this is your kitchen. Poolesville offers the best of both worlds: a charming, tight-knit community surrounded by farmland, wineries, and natural beauty, just a short drive from Washington, D.C. It’s a place where local sourcing isn’t a trend; it’s a way of life. At The Crossvines, that connection to place comes alive through food, wine, and shared experiences. From intimate dinners to large-scale events, the property is designed to be a go-to destination, giving you a dynamic culinary canvas to bring ideas to life.

Requirements

Experience leading culinary teams in high-volume, hospitality-focused environments
A collaborative leadership style that prioritizes communication, trust, and development
Passion for seasonal cooking, menu innovation, and ingredient-driven cuisine
Comfort navigating both the creative and business sides of the kitchen
Adaptability in a dynamic, event-driven environment
A genuine focus on guest experience and continuous improvement
Experience in destination dining, wineries, event venues, or premium hospitality settings
Background working with local, sustainable, or farm-driven sourcing programs

Responsibilities

Shape and lead the culinary vision for The Crossvines, creating menus that are seasonal, approachable, and reflective of the region
Partner across culinary, beverage, and events teams to deliver seamless and memorable guest experiences
Build, mentor, and inspire a kitchen team where people feel supported, engaged, and excited to grow
Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring consistency, quality, and thoughtful execution
Balance creativity with operational excellence, managing food cost, labor, and efficiency with intention
Maintain best-in-class food safety, sanitation, and workplace standards
Cultivate relationships with local farmers, producers, and purveyors to highlight regional ingredients
Contribute to special events, tastings, and programming that elevate the overall guest journey