Executive Chef (Senior Living Community)

Executive Chef (Senior Living Community) at Discovery Village at the West End – IL summary:

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About Discovery Management Group

Discovery Management Group leads one of the nation’s most purpose-driven and people-centered senior living organizations, managing and enhancing senior living communities across the United States. With a focus on operational excellence, lifestyle personalization, and culture-driven leadership, we proudly serve residents and families with more than 15,000 units nationwide and growing.

As part of one of the largest senior living families in the U.S., our communities have earned Great Place to Work® certifications from 2022–2026. At Discovery Management Group, purpose guides our work, culture fuels our success, and growth defines our future. We continually aspire and invest in learning and development opportunities that support our team members’ professional growth, ensuring every team member has the tools to build a meaningful and rewarding career.

Discover Your Purpose with Us at Discovery Villages West End - IL!

As Executive Chef , you’ll play an essential role in enriching the lives of seniors, creating meaningful connections, and making a difference every single day.

Your Role:

As the Executive Chef , your role includes leading all culinary operations while remaining hands-on in the kitchen. You’ll combine creativity, leadership, and excellence in execution to deliver outstanding dining experiences for residents and guests. This role is responsible for menu planning, food preparation, sanitation, inventory, vendor management, and staff development—all while modeling a service-driven, hospitality-focused culture.

Position Highlights:

• Status: Full Time
• Schedule: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; on call as needed; Manager on Duty one time per month
• Location: Fully on-site – Richmond, VA
• Compensation: $78,000–$82,000
• Bonus Eligibility: 10% Annual Target Bonus

What You’ll Do:

• Lead day-to-day kitchen operations while actively participating in meal preparation and service
• Develop and execute diverse, high-quality menus that reflect resident preferences, cultural influences, and nutritional needs
• Plan and manage special events, banquets, and themed meals in coordination with community leadership and the activities team
• Mentor, train, and schedule the culinary team, ensuring accountability, safety, and service excellence
• Maintain the highest standards of sanitation and food safety; conduct regular inspections and audits for compliance
• Manage purchasing, vendor relationships, inventory, and food cost controls within budget targets
• Oversee preventive maintenance and proper care of kitchen equipment
• Collaborate with Front of House and hospitality teams to deliver seamless, memorable dining experiences
• Respond promptly to resident and family feedback to ensure satisfaction and continuous improvement
• Foster a positive, high-performing team environment rooted in service and culinary excellence

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of culinary leadership experience in high-volume, high-standard environments (e.g., country clubs, resorts, cruise ships)
• Hands-on experience leading kitchen operations, including cooking, presentation, and plating standards
• ServSafe or Food Safety Certification required
• Strong knowledge of sanitation practices, food safety regulations, and proper equipment use
• Proven ability in menu development, cost control, vendor management, and inventory systems
• Experience managing special events, banquets, and/or catering
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and kitchen management systems
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
• Experience in senior living culinary services is a plus when paired with demonstrated high service standards
• Participation in rotating on-call schedule or Manager on Duty (MOD) responsibilities required

Why Join Us?

• Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package – medical, dental, vision, PTO, 401(k) and more for eligible positions
• Thrive in a purpose-driven environment that puts residents first
• Join a collaborative, supportive leadership team that values your voice
• Build meaningful connections and create lasting impact for residents and their loved ones

Benefits You’ll Enjoy:

• Competitive wages
• Early access to earned wages before payday!
• Flexible scheduling options with full-time and part-time hours
• Paid time off and Holidays (full-time)
• Comprehensive benefit package including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurances (full-time)
• 401(K) with employer match
• Paid training
• Opportunities for growth and advancement
• Meals and uniforms
• Employee Assistance Program

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members. EOE D/V

A Note to Applicants

This job description outlines the general nature and level of responsibilities for this role and is not an exhaustive list of all duties. Qualified individuals with disabilities, as defined by the ADA, must be able to perform the essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation, as determined on a case-by-case basis.

Agency Policy

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies. Please refrain from contacting hiring managers directly.

Employment Scam Warning

We only post jobs on our official careers site and accept applications through that platform. We do not conduct interviews via text or social media or ask for personal or banking information.

Keywords:

Executive Chef senior living, senior living culinary, ServSafe chef job, Richmond VA chef, menu development chef, kitchen management, food safety certification, high-volume culinary leader