Executive Chef| Modern Steakhouse| St. Pete, FL

About the Company

A growing and dynamic hospitality group focused on developing high-quality, experience-driven restaurant concepts. With multiple successful operations and an expanding footprint, the group is committed to innovation, strong leadership, and building teams that deliver exceptional guest experiences. Their newest project is a modern steakhouse concept in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, designed to blend elevated cuisine with a vibrant, contemporary atmosphere.

About the Role

The Executive Chef will play a critical leadership role in the opening and ongoing success of this new modern steakhouse. This individual will be responsible for building and leading the culinary team, developing systems and standards, and executing a high-quality, consistency-driven menu. This role requires a proven Executive Chef with strong opening experience and the ability to lead in a high-volume, upscale environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of kitchen operations from pre-opening through launch and beyond
• Build, train, and develop a high-performing culinary team
• Collaborate on menu development, ensuring alignment with the concept and market
• Establish and maintain recipe standards, prep systems, and SOPs
• Drive consistency, quality, and execution across all service periods
• Manage food cost, labor, and overall kitchen financial performance
• Oversee vendor relationships, ordering systems, and product quality
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards
• Partner with ownership and leadership on strategic growth initiatives

Qualifications

• Current or recent Executive Chef experience required within an upscale, high-volume restaurant
• Proven opening experience required
• Strong background in modern steakhouse, steak and seafood, or similar elevated dining concepts
• Demonstrated success managing high-volume operations
• Solid financial acumen with experience managing P&L, food cost, and labor
• Strong leadership and team development skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
• Passion for quality, creativity, and guest experience

Benefits

• Competitive base salary of $110,000 – $120,000
• Bonus potential tied to performance
• Relocation assistance available for exceptional candidates
• Opportunity to lead a high-profile new opening
• Growth potential within an expanding hospitality group
• Creative input and ownership in concept development
• Supportive and collaborative leadership environment