Director of Culinary Services
Director of Culinary Services
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Job Description
Job Title: Culinary Director LifeSpire of Virginia Lakewood
Salary Starting at $90000k based on experience Location: Richmond VA
Employment Type: FullTime
Industry: Senior Living / Restaurant / Culinary Arts
Join Our Calling To Elevate Senior Living Through Culinary Excellence
At Lakewood we believe that food is more than sustenanceits a source of joy comfort and connection. Were seeking a passionate and experienced Culinary Director to lead our culinary team in delivering an exceptional dining experience for our residents. If you are driven by integrity thrive on creativity and believe in the power of teamwork we invite you to become a part of our leadership team.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Culinary Vision
- Oversee all culinary operations across multiple dining venues within the community including fine dining fast casual catering and state compliant healthcare dining
- Develop and execute seasonal residentfocused menus that balance taste nutrition and visual presentation
- Introduce creative menu innovations and dining concepts tailored to evolving resident preferences and dietary needs
Team Development & Culture
- Recruit train and inspire a team of chefs kitchen staff and dining personnel to uphold excellence in food quality and hospitality
- Foster a culture of collaboration professional growth and continuous learning within the culinary team
- Lead by example with professionalism accountability and a commitment to high standards
Operations & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with all local state and federal food safety and sanitation standards (e.g. ServSafe HACCP protocols)
- Maintain a clean organized and safe kitchen environment
- Collaborate with maintenance and facilities teams to ensure equipment is functional clean and compliant
Resident Experience & Engagement
- Regularly engage with residents to gather feedback understand preferences and adapt menus accordingly
- Partner with life enrichment teams to create memorable culinary events themed dinners and interactive experiences (e.g. cooking demos tastings holiday feasts)
- Serve as a visible approachable leader in the dining environment ensuring service and presentation exceed expectations
Financial Management
- Develop and manage department budgets labor forecasting and cost control strategies
- Optimize food purchasing and inventory control in partnership with vendors and procurement teams
- Track key performance metrics including resident satisfaction food costs and team efficiency
CrossDepartmental Collaboration
- Work closely with the Executive Director Wellness Director and other leadership team members to support the overall resident experience
- Collaborate with marketing teams on tours open houses and promotional events showcasing the culinary program
- Participate in leadership meetings and strategic planning for continuous improvement
Qualifications:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in a senior culinary leadership role preferably in hospitality healthcare or upscale senior living
- Culinary degree or equivalent experience required; ServSafe Certification preferred
- Proven track record of leading and inspiring highperforming culinary teams
- Strong understanding of nutrition special diets and food service standards
- Excellent organizational communication and leadership skills
- A passion for elevating dining experiences while maintaining high standards of integrity
Our Core Values:
- Integrity: We do the right thing even when no one is watching. Ethical leadership is at the heart of our culture.
- Creativity: We innovate constantly to delight our residents and evolve with their tastes and needs.
- Teamwork: We believe that great things happen when we work together in support of our shared mission.
Required Experience:
Director
Employment Type
Full-Time
