Culinary Director

Culinary Director – Visionary Leader for a Growing Hospitality Brand

Location : Chicago, IL | Full-Time | Competitive Salary + Benefits

We are a fast-growing, mission-driven hospitality company rooted in culinary excellence and cultural storytelling. With multiple thriving locations and ambitious plans for expansion, we’re seeking a Culinary Director to lead our food program into its next chapter.

Who You Are :

You’re an experienced chef, kitchen leader, or culinary operations pro with a passion for building systems, developing people, and bringing bold, thoughtful food to life. You understand how to balance creativity with consistency—and can scale a menu while maintaining soul. You thrive in high-volume, multi-unit environments and love mentoring kitchen teams to reach their full potential.

What You'll Do :

Lead culinary vision across multiple restaurants and wholesale locations

Oversee R&D, recipe development, and menu innovation

Implement systems to improve food quality, consistency, and operational efficiency

Collaborate closely with ownership, GMs, and operations leadership

Drive cost control, sourcing strategy, and kitchen training programs

Manage and develop culinary talent across the organization

What You Bring :

5+ years in culinary leadership roles (multi-unit or high-volume preferred)

Strong understanding of food cost, labor management, and kitchen systems

A deep love of food, cultural authenticity, and hospitality

Experience leading, inspiring, and holding teams accountable

Comfort operating in both creative and analytical spaces

Chicago-based or willing to relocate

Why This Role?

This is a rare opportunity to help shape the culinary identity of a beloved, growing brand with a devoted following. You’ll join a small, dynamic leadership team with big vision and real momentum.