Culinary Director

Head Chef (Culinary Director) - Full Time
FTK Hospitality DC | Philadelphia, PA

Job Summary
FTK Hospitality  Philadelphia is seeking a dynamic and hands-on Head Chef (Culinary Director) to oversee culinary operations for a well-known hospitality and entertainment group with 20+ casual dining restaurants, plus a thriving events and catering / events division. This high-impact leadership role is ideal for an experienced culinary professional who thrives in fast-paced kitchen environments, excels at team development, and is passionate about delivering consistent, high-quality dining experiences. Approximately 50% of the role involves travel to various locations, ensuring standards and supporting teams across the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Culinary Operations Leadership
  • Oversee all kitchen operations for 20+ casual dining restaurants, ensuring consistency and excellence across each location
  • Direct the culinary aspects of events and catering, including menu planning and large-volume execution
  • Lead hands-on in kitchens, setting the standard for quality, efficiency, and hospitality
• Menu & Quality Control
  • Develop, test, and roll out new menu items in collaboration with operations and marketing teams
  • Create and maintain recipes, plating guides, and kitchen systems to ensure brand consistency
• Financial & Administrative Management
  • Manage food cost, labor, inventory, and waste to achieve budget goals
  • Work with purchasing and vendor partners on sourcing, pricing, and product quality
  • Open new locations and refresh existing kitchens as the group expands
• Team Leadership & Training
  • Hire, train, and develop executive chefs and kitchen managers for all locations
  • Set and uphold food safety, sanitation, and health code standards

Requirements

• Proven regional culinary leadership, overseeing at least 10 locations simultaneously
• Extensive high-volume casual dining or multi-unit restaurant management background
• Events and catering experience highly preferred
• Hands-on leadership style with a demonstrated ability to build and mentor strong kitchen teams
• Solid financial acumen in food cost, labor management, and P&L
• Ability to travel approximately 50% of the time based in Philadelphia
• ServSafe certification required; culinary degree a plus

Schedule
Full-time position with approximately 50% travel to restaurant and event locations. Flexibility required to meet business needs across multiple sites.

Why You'll Love Working Here

• High-visibility leadership role within a prominent, growing hospitality group
• Opportunity to shape culinary direction across multiple restaurant and catering venues
• Dynamic, hands-on work environment with a focus on quality and innovation
• Competitive compensation package including salary, bonus, and comprehensive benefits
• Supportive team culture with opportunities for career advancement and professional growth