Head Chef (Culinary Director) Hiring

StaffedUp•Philadelphia, PA

About The Position

FTK Hospitality Philadelphia is seeking a hands-on Head Chef (Culinary Director) to oversee culinary operations for a hospitality and entertainment group with more than 20 casual dining restaurants and an events and catering division. The role involves leading culinary operations across locations, directing event and catering food service, maintaining consistent quality, and developing kitchen teams. Approximately 50% of the position involves travel to restaurant and event locations, and the role is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Requirements

Proven regional culinary leadership overseeing at least 10 locations simultaneously.
Extensive experience in high-volume casual dining or multi-unit restaurant management.
Hands-on leadership style and demonstrated ability to build and mentor strong kitchen teams.
Solid financial acumen in food costs, labor management, and P&L.
Ability to travel approximately 50% of the time; the role is based in Philadelphia.
ServSafe certification required.
Flexibility to meet business needs across multiple sites.

Nice To Haves

Events and catering experience highly preferred.
Culinary degree is a plus.

Responsibilities

Oversee kitchen operations across more than 20 casual dining restaurants, ensuring consistency and quality.
Direct culinary aspects of events and catering, including menu planning and large-volume execution.
Work hands-on in kitchens to set standards for quality, efficiency, and hospitality.
Develop, test, and roll out menu items with operations and marketing teams.
Create and maintain recipes, plating guides, and kitchen systems to ensure brand consistency.
Manage food costs, labor, inventory, and waste to meet budget goals.
Work with purchasing and vendor partners on sourcing, pricing, and product quality.
Support new location openings and refresh existing kitchens as the group expands.
Hire, train, and develop executive chefs and kitchen managers across locations.
Establish and uphold food safety, sanitation, and health code standards.