Director of Culinary Services/Executive Chef

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT US

True Connection Communities, a proud member of Green Courte Residential Holdings, is a rapidly expanding network of luxury senior living communities specializing in Active Adult and Independent Living. At TCC, every day presents a unique opportunity for our team members to forge meaningful connections with residents, their families, and each other in a deeply personal and impactful way.

Whether you interact directly with residents or support those who do, you'll find countless opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. We believe in fostering a supportive and engaging environment where every team member can thrive.

Discover more about True Connection Communities and how you can be part of our mission to enhance the lives of seniors by visiting www.trueconnectioncommunities.com.

SALARY & BONUS

Competitive base salary and an exceptional bonus/incentive plan designed to reward your hard work and success. Bonus Plan includes commission, community payout, occupancy bonus, and annual performance bonus.

With this plan, your achievements and contribution directly impact your earnings!

SUMMARY:

We are seeking a results-driven and experienced Director of Culinary/ to join our team at Verena at The Reserve located in Williamsburg, VA - a 55+ luxury independent living community offering vibrant amenities and active neighbors. The ideal candidate will provide visionary culinary leadership while maintaining a hands-on presence in daily operations. This role is responsible for delivering exceptional dining experiences, ensuring food quality, safety, and regulatory compliance, and fostering a culture of excellence that enhances the overall quality of life for our residents. This is a working leadership role that requires a hands-on professional who is willing to roll up their sleeves, lead by example, and actively participate in kitchen operations.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Oversee the hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management of all culinary, dining room, catering, and delivery service associates.
• Motivate, coach, and manage teams to ensure proper staffing within budget.
• Partner with kitchen and dining teams to deliver a high-quality resident experience.
• Create and maintain nutritious, resident-focused menus meeting dietary needs.
• Gather and act on resident feedback to enhance menus, service, and events.
• Manage budgets, food/labor costs, inventory, and ordering to control waste and expenses.
• Ensure clean, safe, and attractive dining and kitchen environments.
• Maintain compliance with health regulations, food safety standards, and company policies.
• Collaborate with leadership to promote a hospitality-driven culture.
• Provide excellent customer service to residents, guests, and prospects.
• Complete reports, attend meetings, and maintain required training and certifications.
• Support new resident dining transitions and participate in Manager-on-Duty weekend rotation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• High School Diploma or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in a culinary leadership role such as Executive Chef, Director of Culinary, or Food & Beverage Director.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills with the ability to motivate and manage diverse teams.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance (local, state, and federal).
• Experience with menu development, nutritional planning, and accommodating special dietary needs.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, food cost control, inventory management, and labor management.
• Excellent customer service skills with a focus on hospitality, respect, and resident satisfaction.
• Ability to work hands-on in a fast-paced culinary environment while leading by example.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Experience leading maintenance teams within property management, hotel, and/or Senior Living communities highly preferred.
• Proven experience as an Executive Chef, Director of Culinary, or similar leadership role
• Senior living, hospitality, or luxury dining experience strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and regulatory compliance
• Demonstrates ability to lead and motivate a team in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent organizational, budgeting, and time-management skills
• Hands-on leadership style with a passion for quality food and service

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive salary and incentive plans (payouts monthly, quarterly, and yearly)
• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance plan options
• Industry-leading Paid Time Off plan
• 401k
• And more…

True Connection Communities is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V. We are committed to equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, or other protected status, as established by Federal or State laws.

True Connection Communities complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), to provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.

True Connection Communities is a Drug-Free/Smoke-Free Workplace.