Executive Chef - Jacob K. Javits Convention CenterSalary Range: $140,000-$150,000Other Forms of Compensation:BonusPay Grade: 16
Job SummaryWe are seeking a dynamic and strategic
Executive Chef to lead all culinary operations at CULTIVATED. This role is responsible for building and executing a unified culinary vision aligned with Levy's standards and our onsite partner's expectations.
The Executive Chef serves as the senior culinary leader for the location, overseeing large-scale banquet and catering operations ranging from 20 to 10,000+ guests. This individual drives culinary innovation, operational excellence, financial performance, and team leadership within a complex, unionized, high-volume environment.
The ideal candidate is an accomplished hospitality leader who thrives under pressure, inspires diverse teams, and balances creativity with strong financial acumen.
Key ResponsibilitiesCulinary Leadership & Vision- Develop and execute a shared culinary vision in partnership with Levy leadership and Javits stakeholders.
- Oversee menu design, seasonal updates, and concept evolution aligned with food trends, client expectations, and internal performance data.
- Maintain exceptional standards of taste, presentation, and consistency across all events and service styles.
- Compose recipes, lead menu build diagram creation and ensure operational feasibility at scale.
Operational Excellence- Oversee all culinary production, execution, and logistics for events of varying scale and complexity.
- Conduct regular event walks, engaging with guests, VIPs, partners, and team members to ensure excellence in execution.
- Ensure compliance with all NYC health department regulations and enforce the highest standards of food safety and sanitation.
- Conduct department safety walks to maintain an outstanding level of cleanliness and operational integrity.
Financial & Strategic Oversight- Own food cost management, labor optimization, and profitability targets.
- Identify opportunities to improve both food quality and financial performance.
- Lead season planning processes to align with Levy's strategic goals and partner expectations.
- Collaborate with regional and Home Office culinary teams to continually elevate the guest experience.
- Partner with regional leadership and onsite stakeholders to develop and execute the location's strategic business plan.
Leadership & Talent Development- Recruit, interview, and approve culinary hires.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a large culinary team, including union staff.
- Foster a culture of accountability, inclusion, and operational excellence.
- Drive performance management initiatives and succession planning within the department.
Relationship Management- Represent Levy at partner meetings and networking events.
- Build strong relationships with key vendors and suppliers.
- Serve as the culinary ambassador for the Cultivated brand within the New York hospitality community.
Qualifications- Minimum 8+ years of experience as an Executive Chef in a high-volume banquet, convention center, hotel, or stadium environment.
- Demonstrated success managing large-scale catering operations serving thousands of guests.
- Previous experience working in a unionized kitchen environment strongly preferred.
- Culinary degree from an accredited institution preferred or equivalent professional experience.
- Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, controlling costs, and driving profitability.
- In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining composure and professionalism.
- High level of computer literacy; experience with culinary systems and reporting tools preferred.
- Social media fluency and comfort representing the brand publicly is a plus.
- Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays based on event schedules.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
We Offer- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits including:
- Medical, Dental, Vision
- Paid Time Off & Parental Leave
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Retirement Plan
- Commuter and Employee Assistance Programs
- A dynamic, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture
- Opportunities for career advancement within Levy and Compass Group
Ready to lead unforgettable culinary experiences at one of New York's most iconic venues? Apply now and join a team where team = family.Curious about Life at Levy? Check it out: Levy CultureAt Levy, team = family. And we'll always take care of family, learn more about Levy benefits offered.- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Life Insurance/ AD
- Disability Insurance
- Retirement Plan
- Flexible Time Off Plan
- Paid Parental Leave
- Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
- Personal Leave
- Associate Shopping Program
- Health and Wellness Programs
- Discount Marketplace
- Identity Theft Protection
- Pet Insurance
- Commuter Benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.
https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_Levy.pdf
Req ID: 1516555Levy Sector ((Cust_clntAcName)) Javone Beverly ((req_classification)) 
