Senior Executive Chef - Quick Hire!
Posted on October 24, 2025
Parkhurst Dining is a distinguished family-owned and operated foodservice company that specializes in providing culinary, dining, and catering services to over 80 organizations and universities. With a deep commitment to quality and authenticity, Parkhurst Dining emphasizes scratch-made food using locally sourced ingredients, prepared with care and served with a smile. This dedication to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction defines the unique experience known as Parkhurst Dining. As part of Eat'n Park Hospitality Group—a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts that serve 50 million guests annually across restaurants, college and corporate campuses, and an online store—Parkhurst Dining stands as a leader in the foodservice industry, recognized for its innovative approach and passionate team environment.
The role of Senior Executive Chef within Parkhurst Dining is a pivotal leadership position responsible for overseeing the culinary operations of accounts managing over $10 million in annual volume. This role commands a blend of creative culinary expertise and strong operational management skills to ensure an exceptional dining experience for customers, clients, and guests. The Senior Executive Chef is entrusted with full ownership of culinary cost controls and profit and loss accountability, playing a strategic role in budget development and financial management. Beyond financial stewardship, the role demands a hands-on leader who mentors and develops culinary teams, ensuring they are aligned with Parkhurst's high standards in food production, service, and presentation.
The Senior Executive Chef also drives menu innovation and refinement, balancing creativity with operational practicality and customer preferences. Collaborating with clients and catering teams, this leader shapes personalized culinary experiences that cater to diverse needs, including accommodating individuals with dietary restrictions such as allergies or medical conditions like diabetes. The position involves direct interaction with clients and guests to gather feedback, assess satisfaction levels, and implement continuous improvements that enhance service quality. By modeling the Smile Plus hospitality imperatives, the Senior Executive Chef fosters a welcoming and professional atmosphere that embodies the core values of Parkhurst Dining.
Operational excellence is another cornerstone of this role, requiring the executive chef to supervise all kitchen activities, manage inventory, ordering, and receiving, and control labor and food costs to meet budgetary goals. This role also ensures compliance with all company standards, food safety regulations, and best practices for hygienic and efficient kitchen management. The Senior Executive Chef must be an adept communicator and team leader, capable of providing clear menu communications, training in culinary techniques and portion control, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth within the culinary team.
Candidates for this position will bring a wealth of professional experience with at least fifteen years in the culinary field and a minimum of ten years in senior culinary leadership roles, preferably within higher education or business dining environments. A culinary degree or equivalent job-related experience is required, alongside proficient skills in Microsoft software and financial management related to labor and food cost controls. Strong organizational and leadership capabilities are essential to effectively manage the workload, guide teams, and achieve outstanding financial and customer service results.
The Senior Executive Chef role at Parkhurst Dining offers a unique opportunity to join a company that values culinary innovation, sustainable practices, and a supportive workplace culture with ample room for professional growth. This role is ideal for culinary professionals passionate about creating memorable dining experiences and leading with excellence in a dynamic, client-focused environment.
                - Fifteen or more years of professional culinary experience
 - Ten or more years in senior culinary leadership roles
 - Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree in culinary arts or equivalent job-related experience
 - Proven ability to train others and lead a team
 - Proficiency in Microsoft software programs
 - Strong planning and organizational skills
 - Strong leadership and team management skills
 - Proficient skills in math and financial management including labor and food cost controls