Culinary Director

Location: Boston, MA

Gecko Hospitality is seeking an exceptional candidate for the role of Culinary Director, a dynamic and pivotal position within our client’s organization. This individual will shape the vision and direction of culinary operations across multiple venues, ensuring a seamless blend of excellence, innovation, and consistency in food offerings. Collaborating with leadership teams, restaurant owners, and the Director of Operations, the Culinary Director will drive business growth and guest satisfaction through cutting-edge culinary strategies.

Role Overview:

The Culinary Director will oversee strategic menu development, guide high-performing kitchen teams, and uphold the highest quality standards. This position demands a balance of culinary creativity, operational expertise, and business acumen to consistently deliver remarkable dining experiences and meet revenue goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Culinary Operations

Direct operations, including menu development, food preparation, presentation, and kitchen efficiency.

• Strategic Menu Development

Collaborate with ownership to create innovative offerings for fine dining restaurants and new locations.

• Cost & Inventory Management

Oversee food costs, inventory control, vendor relationships, and purchasing in partnership with procurement teams.

• Regulatory Compliance

Ensure strict compliance with health, safety, sanitation, and food handling regulations.

• Team Leadership

Mentor and lead a diverse culinary team, fostering a culture of creativity, excellence, and accountability.

• Trend Monitoring

Stay atop industry trends to introduce fresh, relevant culinary ideas that resonate with our target audience.

• Operational Efficiency

Implement and maintain kitchen policies, procedures, and operational standards to achieve peak performance.

• Financial Oversight

Manage kitchen budgets, monitor financial performance, and ensure labor efficiency.

Ideal Candidate Qualifications:

• Culinary Leadership Experience

10+ years of proven success in leadership roles within fine dining or high-volume upscale restaurants.

• Growth & Business Development

Demonstrated ability to scale multi-location culinary programs and grow business initiatives.

• Educational Background

Culinary degree or equivalent experience; additional hospitality or business education is a plus.

• Menu & Cost Expertise

Skilled in menu development, food cost management, and kitchen operations.

• Collaborative Approach

Experienced in diplomatically working with owners, partners, and diverse teams.

• Financial Acumen

Strong capability in budget management and achieving financial targets.

• Trends Knowledge

Deep understanding of culinary trends, food safety standards, and industry practices.

• Leadership & Communication

Team-oriented, collaborative management style with excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.

• Adaptability

Ability to thrive under pressure, solve problems, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Requirements:

• Flexible availability, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to travel as needed.
• Physical capacity to lift up to 25 lbs frequently and up to 50 lbs occasionally, with prolonged periods of standing (4–8 hours per shift).

Compensation:

Competitive salary in the range of $150K–$200K per year based on experience and qualifications.

For an interview, please email your detailed resume and portfolio to brian@geckohospitality.com.