Job Description
Job Description
Job Title: Executive Chef
Reports To: Director of Food & Beverage / General Manager
Coordinates With: Chef de Cuisine, Sous Chefs, Kitchen Staff, Front-of-House Team, Food & Beverage Management, Vendors
Position Type: Full-time; Exempt
Position Overview
The Executive Chef provides strategic and operational leadership for all culinary operations at Hickory, Nicewonder Inn’s signature restaurant. This role is responsible for setting the culinary vision, maintaining exceptional quality standards, managing financial performance, and leading a high-performing kitchen team. The Executive Chef ensures consistency, creativity, and excellence across daily service, banquets, and special events while upholding Hickory’s reputation for refined, innovative dining.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee and direct all culinary operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, consistency, and guest satisfaction
- Provide leadership, mentorship, and oversight to the Chef de Cuisine, Sous Chefs, and all kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and professional kitchen culture.
- Develop, design, and execute menus that reflect seasonal availability, locally sourced ingredients, and Hickory’s culinary identity.
- Establish and enforce standardized recipes, portion control, and plating guidelines across all services and events.
- Manage food, labor, and operational costs; analyze financial performance and implement strategies to meet budgetary goals.
- Oversee purchasing, inventory control, and vendor relationships to ensure quality, cost efficiency, and timely delivery.
- Ensure full compliance with all health, sanitation, and food safety regulations, including HACCP standards and local health codes.
- Conduct regular kitchen inspections and audits to maintain cleanliness, organization, and operational efficiency.
- Collaborate with Food & Beverage leadership and Front-of-House management to ensure seamless service and event execution.
- Lead culinary planning for banquets, private events, and special functions, ensuring consistency with brand standards.
- Train and evaluate, and schedule culinary staff to meet business demands and support employee development.
- Address guest feedback and operational challenges professionally, using feedback to drive continuous improvement.
- Stay informed of culinary trends and industry best practices to maintain innovation and competitive excellence.
Qualifications
Required:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent; culinary degree preferred.
- Experience: Minimum of 10 years in professional kitchens, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or executive culinary role.
- Extensive knowledge of culinary techniques, kitchen operations, food safety regulations, and cost management.
- Proven leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
Preferred:
- Fine dining, luxury hospitality, or resort experience.
- Demonstrated success in menu development, cost control, and team leadership within high-volume or event-driven environments.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
- Advanced expertise in culinary execution, menu development, and flavor composition.
- Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities across diverse culinary teams.
- In-depth knowledge of food cost management, labor forecasting, and inventory systems.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining excellence under pressure.
- Strategic thinker with a creative, innovative approach to cuisine and hospitality.
Work Environment / Physical Requirements
- Fast-paced professional kitchen environment with exposure to heat, steam, sharp tools, and commercial kitchen equipment.
- Requires standing for extended periods, bending, lifting up to 50 lbs, and performing repetitive tasks.
- Flexible schedule required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
EEO Statement
The Virginian Golf Club L.C. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
About Us:
At The Virginian Golf Club & Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we believe in more than just beautiful views and top-tier amenities — we believe in creating experiences that linger. Located across 1,500+ acres in Virginia’s highlands, our private community blends championship golf, elegant lodging, curated cuisine, and award-winning wine into one destination you’ll never forget.
From Tom Fazio’s pristinely sculpted golf course, to our boutique Inn and luxury yurts, to Hickory — our fine dining restaurant led by a James Beard-nominated chef — everything we do is rooted in hospitality, nature, craftsmanship, and joy. We are growing, innovating, and deeply committed to quality in every service and encounter.
Join us, help us craft memorable moments, and be part of a team that blends country elegance with genuine warmth.
Benefits of Joining Our Team
At The Virginian Golf Club, and Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we believe our employees are the heart of our success. We’re proud to offer a supportive, rewarding workplace with benefits designed to help you thrive both personally and professionally.
Our benefits include:
- Competitive Pay – Fair wages with opportunities for growth.
- Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus company-provided life insurance at no cost to you.
- Retirement Planning – 401(k) plan with company contribution.
- Paid Time Off – Vacation, holidays, and sick time to support work–life balance.
- Team Member Discounts – Special pricing on lodging, dining, and vineyard experiences.
- Beautiful Work Environment – A scenic setting across 1,500+ acres of rolling hills, vineyards, and golf greens.
- Career Growth – Training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities across hospitality, golf, and agricultural operations.
- Positive Culture – Be part of a professional team that values respect, collaboration, and excellence in service.