Director of Culinary Experience

Description

Eskaton is a nonprofit senior services provider serving Northern California's older adults for over 55 years. With over 1,700 employees and 28 communities and services in Northern California, Eskaton is a great company to join and build your career.

Certified in 2022 as "A Great Place to Work," Eskaton genuinely cares about the financial security, health and well-being of our team members.

In addition to competitive pay and comprehensive benefits including a 401K retirement fund matching program, Eskaton employees appreciate knowing their work makes a real difference in the community and in the lives they touch.

At Eskaton, being inclusive is one of our core values. This means that we celebrate diversity and equity for all who live and work with us, building a culture of belonging and community across the aging spectrum.

Our Benefits include but are not limited to...

• Competitive Health Plan, including dental and vision coverage
• Company paid life insurance
• Wellness programs
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401K with Company Match Retirement Program (Minimum eligibility requirements apply)
• Paid Time Off programs
• Voluntary benefits & supplemental insurance available

This position is eligible for Eskaton's health benefits package the first of the month following 60 days of employment and Paid Time Off benefits program after 90 days of employment.

Position Summary :

The Director of Culinary Experience is a visionary leader responsible for crafting and executing an exceptional dining and hospitality experience within the Eskaton Village Carmichael Life Plan community.

This role ensures that all culinary offerings and hospitality services exceed the expectations of residents, guests, and staff, fostering an environment of excellence, innovation, and community.

The starting salary for this position ranges from $91,500 to $126,645 annually. Factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education / training, job-related skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations may influence base pay offered.

Position Responsibilities include :

Strategic Leadership :

Develop and implement a comprehensive culinary and hospitality strategy that aligns with the community's vision, mission, and values.

• Collaborate with executive leadership to integrate dining and hospitality services into the overall resident experience.
• Culinary Program Development :

Oversee the design and delivery of diverse culinary programs across multiple dining venues, including casual, fine dining, and specialized dietary services.

• Ensure that menus are innovative, seasonal, and reflect resident preferences and nutritional needs.
• Lead the development of special events, themed dining experiences, and culinary education programs.
• Operational Management :

Direct the daily operations of all dining venues, ensuring high standards of food quality, service, and safety.

• Manage budgets, financial reporting, and cost controls to ensure profitability while maintaining quality.
• Oversee procurement processes, ensuring the use of high-quality, sustainable ingredients.
• Team Leadership and Development :

Recruit, train, and mentor a diverse team of culinary and hospitality professionals.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and employee engagement.
• Implement performance management systems to ensure team accountability and excellence.
• Resident and Guest Experience :

Develop and maintain strong relationships with residents and guests, regularly soliciting feedback to enhance the dining and hospitality experience.

• Ensure personalized service that meets the unique preferences and needs of each resident.
• Oversee the integration of technology and innovation to enhance the guest experience, such as reservation systems, mobile ordering, and personalized dining options.
• Quality and Compliance :

Ensure all dining and hospitality operations comply with regulatory standards, including health and safety codes.

• Conduct regular quality assurance audits to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, food safety, and service.
• Develop and enforce policies and procedures that align with best practices in the industry.
• Sustainability and Community Engagement :

Lead sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction, energy conservation, and the use of local, organic products.

• Collaborate with community partners and local vendors to enhance the culinary offerings and support the local economy.
• Organize and participate in community events that promote healthy living, culinary arts, and social engagement.
• Innovation and Trend Monitoring :

Stay informed about emerging trends in the culinary and hospitality industries, integrating new ideas and technologies into the community's offerings.

Lead initiatives that enhance the community's reputation as a leader in culinary excellence and hospitality.

Qualifications :

• Proven experience in leading, developing and managing a variety of culinary operations and hospitality experiences in restaurant, hotel, club and / or Life Plan community settings.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of building and leading high-performing teams.
• Extensive knowledge of culinary arts, food service management, and hospitality operations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire residents, staff, and stakeholders.
• Commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability in all aspects of dining and hospitality.
• This role is pivotal in creating a vibrant, engaging, and satisfying lifestyle for residents, blending culinary innovation with exceptional service in a supportive community setting.

The final candidate must successfully pass Eskaton's post offer, pre-employment testing which includes a criminal background check, drug test, COVID test, TB screen test and health screen.

All new hires are required to sign an arbitration agreement as a condition of employment.

Eskaton is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status.