Executive Chef & Director of Culinary

Overview

Location:

COMMACK, NY. The Executive Chef provides leadership and direction for a refined, resident-centered culinary program, delivering high-quality dining experiences. This is a hands-on culinary leadership role focused on food quality, service, and professionalism, with active cooking, mentoring, and engagement with residents and guests. Based in Long Island, this position balances culinary excellence with operational discipline and effective collaboration with senior leadership and community stakeholders.

• Culinary & Operational Leadership
  • Lead all culinary operations, ensuring consistent quality, presentation, and execution.
  • Develop seasonal menus that emphasize fresh ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and resident preferences.
  • Maintain high standards of food quality, taste, and presentation across all service periods.
  • Actively participate in daily food production and service as a hands-on chef leader.
  • Lead culinary presentations, tastings, and resident-facing events with professionalism and confidence.
  • Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and operational standards.
• Program Oversight & Execution
  • Oversee menu planning, prep, and service with a focus on efficiency and excellence.
  • Ensure smooth coordination between production, service, and special events.
  • Maintain proper purchasing, receiving, storage, and inventory controls.
  • Identify opportunities to improve processes, equipment usage, and kitchen workflows.
• Business & Financial Management
  • Manage food and labor budgets responsibly while maintaining quality standards.
  • Implement cost-control practices that support sustainability and consistency.
  • Analyze operational data to guide menu development, staffing, and purchasing decisions.
  • Build and maintain effective relationships with vendors and suppliers.
• Resident & Guest Engagement
  • Serve as a visible and approachable culinary leader within the community.
  • Engage directly with residents and guests to gather feedback and enhance the dining experience.
  • Respond proactively to resident needs, preferences, and service recovery opportunities.
  • Collaborate with leadership and programming teams to support community events and initiatives.
• Team Leadership & Development
  • Recruit, train, and develop a skilled and service-focused culinary team.
  • Set clear expectations and provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback.
  • Foster a culture of professionalism, accountability, and pride in execution.
  • Lead by example with integrity, consistency, and attention to detail.

• Minimum of 5 years of executive or senior culinary leadership experience in a polished, resident-focused or hospitality-driven environment.
• Proven ability to lead a culinary program with hands-on involvement.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Strong understanding of food cost control, labor management, and budgeting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable presenting and collaborating in leadership and boardroom settings.
• Experience with menu development, production planning, and special events.
• Proficiency with kitchen technology, inventory systems, and Microsoft Office.
• Serv Safe preferred.

Salary: $90,000 - $100,000. Other forms of compensation:
Merit Increases.

Location:

Commack, NY.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Flexible Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave

EEO:
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status.

Apply to CCL today. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. This job post may be updated to reflect business needs. For more information about our compensation transparency, see the linked wage disclosure for Washington State, Maryland, or remote roles.