Executive Chef

Executive Chef – Job Description

About Catherine’s Market:

Built in 2009, Catherine’s Market is a boutique style grocery store, bakery, deli and coffee shop, that is part of Russell Lands’ hospitality footprint on beautiful Lake Martin, in Central Alabama. We are 40 minutes from Auburn and 1 ½ hours from Birmingham. Find more information on our websites, https://catherinesatcrossroads.com/ and www.russelllands.com

Position Summary:
The Executive Chef oversees all culinary and bakery operations, ensuring high-quality food preparation, menu development, kitchen efficiency, and strong cost control. The Executive Chef must work closely with other store departments including butchery and produce.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership

• Develop, test, and refine menus that align with Catherine’s core concept.
• Ensure consistent food quality, flavor profiles, and presentation standards.
• Lead and mentor culinary staff

Kitchen Operations

• Oversee daily back-of-house operations, including prep, cooking and service flow.
• Maintain proper sanitation, cleanliness, and safety procedures in compliance with local food safety regulations.
• Monitor and maintain kitchen equipment; coordinate repairs or replacements as needed.

Financial & Administrative

• Manage food and labor costs; maintain profitability targets.
• Create and maintain inventory systems, ordering protocols, and vendor relationships.
• Develop recipes and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to control portioning and consistency.

Team Management

• Recruit, train, schedule, and evaluate kitchen staff.
• Foster a positive kitchen culture based on teamwork, respect, and accountability.
• Conduct performance reviews and implement ongoing skill development.

Quality Control

• Taste dishes regularly and ensure strict adherence to recipes.
• Oversee standards to ensure quality and to maintain consistency.
• Monitor guest feedback and take action to improve overall satisfaction.

Compliance & Standards

• Maintain compliance with health department regulations and company policies.
• Train staff in safe food handling, allergen protocols, and hygiene standards.
• Maintain appropriate certifications (e.g., ServSafe or equivalent)

Qualifications

Essential

· Some background in scratch-made pastry operations.

· Very strong organizational abilities.

Additional

· Proven experience as an Executive Chef, Head Chef, or Senior Sous Chef.

· Strong leadership and communication skills.

· Creativity and passion for food, and an ability to stay calm under pressure

· Experience in grocery store-based food operations

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 40–50 lbs.
• Work in a fast-paced, high-heat environment.