Culinary Director

Join the Kalahari Experience

At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, our Promise is

• Lead with Love. We care deeply for our guests, associates, and communities, treating people like family and creating spaces where everyone feels valued.

Now

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is seeking a

Director of Culinary - Executive Chef

brand-new

Spotsylvania, VA. The resort is opening soon. This is a rare opportunity to shape the culinary identity from the ground up — from concept to execution — as a key member of the opening leadership team. In this senior role, you’ll oversee all culinary operations across multiple outlets, lead and inspire a high-performing kitchen team, drive menu innovation, manage food and labor costs, and ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and guest satisfaction. From strategic planning to hands-on execution, you’ll play a pivotal role in bringing an exceptional dining vision to life.

This role goes far beyond the kitchen. You’ll be driving strategic direction, building and mentoring a world-class team, managing budgets, and curating unforgettable dining experiences that will set the tone for everything to come. If you’re passionate about innovation, excellence, and creating something truly special, we want to hear from you.

THIS POSITION IS ONBOARDING NOW, OPENING NOVEMBER 2026. As a ramp up this position will require up to 75% travel between test kitchen in Virginia, Corporate Offices in Wisconsin, and travel to exising properties. Preparation for opening and beyond, travel would be minimal.

What You’ll

Lead resort dining venues with a focus on quality, presentation, safety, and guest satisfaction while aligning with resort branding and strategy.

Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing culinary team that fosters excellence, creativity, and professionalism.

Oversee budgets, food and labor costs, vendor relationships, and kitchen facilities to ensure profitability and long-term efficiency.

What We’re Looking

10+ years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3–5 years in an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef role.

Extensive resort or luxury hotel experience (4-star or 5-star properties preferred).

Proven success managing multi-outlet operations, including restaurants, banquets, room service, and special events

Strong background in budgeting, food and labor cost control, inventory management, and vendor negotiation.

Experience in pre-opening or launching new restaurant concepts is a major plus (and often required for new resorts).

Culinary Degree or Diploma from an accredited culinary school (or equivalent experience).

A leadership style rooted in collaboration, respect, and service to others

Why Kalahari?

Career growth with promotion from within

Comprehensive benefits (401k, health, vision, dental)

Discounts, perks, and education assistance

Be part of something extraordinary. Apply today and help us Lead with Love.

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer.