Executive Chef - Join the Team!

SSA Group is a renowned company specializing in providing integrated services such as dining, retail, admissions, and more for zoos, aquariums, museums, and other cultural attractions across the United States. With over 50 years of experience, SSA Group has established itself as a leader in enhancing revenue opportunities for its partners. The organization is deeply committed to pillars of sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, aiming to transform the cultural attraction industry by offering customized solutions that go beyond standard best practices. Built by families for families, SSA Group operates with a profound sense of dedication and love, ensuring that every guest and community served by their partners receives exceptional service. The Executive Chef position at SSA Group is a pivotal leadership role reporting directly to the General Manager. This full-time, exempt role is ideal for a seasoned culinary professional with a passion for high-volume food service operations such as restaurants, country clubs, catering services, or cultural venues. The Executive Chef will oversee all culinary functions within the assigned unit, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety, and guest satisfaction. They will lead a team of kitchen personnel by hiring, training, and evaluating staff, developing culinary programs, and maintaining efficient kitchen operations. A critical part of the role involves maintaining food safety compliance through rigorous training and adherence to protocols, including SSAfety training, ServSafe certification, and knowledge of HACCP guidelines. The Executive Chef will be responsible for menu planning based on market trends, customer preferences, and nutritional considerations, ensuring consistency and excellence in food preparation and presentation. Duties also include managing food costs, inventory, payroll, and vendor relationships, alongside promoting sustainable resources and an inclusive, supportive work environment. The position demands strong interpersonal and leadership skills for team development and partnership building, combined with exceptional problem-solving and organizational abilities. Candidates must be flexible in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, capable of handling physical demands and varied schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays. SSA Group offers competitive compensation based on experience and education, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401(k) program with company match, paid parental leave, bereavement leave, and more. This role not only contributes to the operational success of SSA Group's culinary services but also supports community engagement, sustainability initiatives, and diversity efforts within the company and its clients.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to articulate to our client, Resident Area General Manager and HQ personnel
• Proven leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building and development, while fostering partnerships
• Exceptional problem solving and decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized
• Demonstrates financial management, merchandising, analytical, planning and leadership skills
• Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment
• Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35lbs) as necessary to operation, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above
• Ability to work varied hours and days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed