An expanding, design-forward boutique hotel group is looking for a Culinary Director to help lead culinary strategy and operations across a portfolio of luxury properties, including several Michelin Key-recognized hotels. Based in Los Angeles, this field-driven role will partner with senior F&B leadership, Executive Chefs, and property teams on menu development, R&D, cost controls, systems, succession planning, and overall culinary execution.
Ideal for an operationally strong multi-unit culinary leader who thrives in a hands-on support role, moving between properties, mentoring chefs, and elevating standards across a dynamic hotel portfolio. Significant travel, sometimes on short notice, is required.
Culinary Director Responsibilities:
- Act as the culinary liaison between Executive Chefs, FOH, property leadership, and corporate teams
- Support culinary operations across a luxury boutique hotel portfolio
- Partner with senior F&B leadership on cost controls, systems, menu development, R&D, and corporate initiatives
- Provide on-site support for properties in transition, including chef onboarding, leadership gaps, and operational stabilization
- Mentor Executive Chefs and culinary teams, including succession planning and performance support
- Travel frequently between properties, sometimes on short notice or across multiple cities in one week
- Spend multiple days or extended periods on-site as needed to support and stabilize operations
Preferred Requirements:
- 2+ years’ experience in a multiunit capacity as either a Culinary Director, Corporate Chef, or Regional Chef (or similar position)
- Hotel culinary leadership experience required
- Forbes, Michelin Key, luxury boutique, or similarly elevated hospitality experience a strong plus
- Strong culinary foundation, ideally with both restaurant and hotel experience
- Ability to navigate hotel F&B dynamics across culinary, FOH, property, and corporate teams
- Strong operational skills, including cost controls, systems, menu development, and team leadership
- Hands-on, field-based leader comfortable stepping into evolving or high-need properties
- Tech-forward mindset and comfort with systems, data, and evolving tools, including AI
Compensation / Benefits:
- Base salary in the $180k-$200k range
- Bonus Program
- Medical coverage, plus dental and vision
- PTO Plan