Executive Chef - Quick Hire!
Posted on October 24, 2025
Churchill Downs Incorporated is a premier company renowned for its rich heritage in horse racing and entertainment. As a leader in the gaming and hospitality industry, Churchill Downs has established a dynamic and inclusive work environment that values diversity, innovation, and collaboration. The company prides itself on offering engaging experiences to its guests, maintaining high standards of service and excellence across all its operations. With a forward-thinking approach and a commitment to fostering a supportive workplace culture, Churchill Downs Incorporated continuously evolves to meet the needs of its employees and customers alike.
This Executive Chef role is a pivotal position within the company's food and beverage department, offering an exciting opportunity to lead culinary operations across the entire property. The Executive Chef is responsible for attracting, developing, and retaining top culinary talent, while fostering a cooperative and productive team atmosphere. This leadership position demands an individual who can oversee kitchen operations, ensure the highest quality of food and service, and drive efficiency through effective management of resources and staff.
The Executive Chef will be instrumental in planning and directing food preparation activities aligned with company brand standards and annual goals. This role requires creativity and innovation in developing new recipes, refining menus, and implementing culinary techniques that elevate the guest dining experience. The Executive Chef will also be deeply involved in administrative tasks such as budget preparation, food cost control, equipment maintenance scheduling, and staff training. A strong emphasis is placed on food safety, sanitation, and compliance with health regulations, ensuring a clean and organized kitchen environment at all times.
In addition to managing the culinary team, the successful candidate will collaborate closely with marketing and food and beverage teams to prepare for special events and promotions. The ability to maintain productive relationships with vendors, property management, and other stakeholders is essential to achieving operational goals. The Executive Chef will also play a key role in monitoring service standards, production schedules, and customer satisfaction by gathering feedback and addressing any issues promptly.
This role requires a professional with excellent leadership skills, financial acumen, and a deep understanding of kitchen operations and back-of-house systems. Availability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts, is a must. The Executive Chef will embody the company's commitment to excellence, creativity, and teamwork, contributing significantly to the continued success and reputation of Churchill Downs Incorporated.
- 2+ year’s culinary education preferred
- 3-5+ years’ experience in similar position required
- advanced knowledge of food profession principles and practices
- proficient knowledge of human resources management
- excellent knowledge of BOH systems, ordering and inventory
- excellent communication skills and ability to meet deadlines
- available to work on call, all shifts, after hours, over weekends and on public holidays
- proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word
- aptitude to learn automated inventory and purchasing systems
- experience or involvement in bar operations preferred
- able to obtain and maintain a valid Kentucky gaming/racing license