What makes an executive chef

They are an assistant to the Executive Chef, and not only assist with cooking and preparation, but also scheduling and planning, managing staff, overseeing orders, and working on menu creation. And then, the Executive Chef! An Executive Chef's salary is dependant on a number of things, including experience and place of work. Here's what you can expect to earn in other countries:. So, there you have it: your quick go-to guide on working your way up to Executive Chef level.

Stay tuned: we're about to release an exciting new course on kitchen leadership for Executive Chefs with Glenn Flood, who is the Food Producer for MasterChef Australia. Sign up to our newsletter for all the latest updates! How to succeed at work and still have a life. How to get promoted as a restaurant manager. Topics: Hospitality career tips , Hospitality staff. Combined with some practical experience, the degree prepares you for kitchen management work, as well as a variety of upper-level hospitality assignments outside the kitchen.

A natural professional progression takes you from sous chef work to Executive Chef positions. Where Executive Chefs Work Professional kitchens employ chefs in a wide variety of environments. Think outside the box for opportunities that move you toward your ultimate goal.

Executive Chefs work at:. Without a doubt, upward salary mobility is enhanced by a comprehensive education, from a reputable Culinary Arts educator. ZIP Code. Graduated High School - Select One - Find Schools. The head chef remains at the top of the hierarchy in restaurant kitchens without an executive chef. Like an executive chef, this person controls all aspects of the kitchen.

They are responsible for creating menus, controlling kitchen costs, and managing the kitchen staff. Some head chefs leave the cooking to the sous chef and the rest of the team, while others are more hands-on and prefer to be involved in the day-to-day cooking activities. The deputy chef, otherwise known as the sous chef, remains second-in-command in the kitchen. Depending on the restaurant and its management, it is possible to have more than one sous chef.

The sous chef is in charge of the kitchen and oversees the day-to-day activities. The station chefs arguably have the critical roles in the kitchen. These chefs cook the food that is being served to customers.

Some culinary facilities offer apprenticeships. These apprenticeships usually last between one and three years and help individuals earn practical, hands-on experience. Executive chefs can also receive off-the-job training through conferences and seminars. There are many conferences executive chefs can attend to stay updated on industry trends and regulations or learn more about food science, new techniques and emerging cuisine directions.

This certification shows an executive chef has advanced foodservice knowledge based on techniques, nutrition, preparation and safety. To earn a CEC, applicants must have five years of experience as a chef, have earned at least a high school diploma and take five hour courses in Nutrition, Food Safety and Sanitation, Cost Control Management, Beverage Management and Supervisory Management.

Applicants must pass a written and practical exam. Executive chefs have a range of skills that allow them to adapt to the different requirements of their position, since they must both manage a team and help an organization grow.

Here are some of the skills that employers frequently look for in an executive chef:. Executive chefs frequently work in a fast-paced and demanding work environment in a variety of establishments.

Most executive chefs will find employment in one of these areas:. The work environment requires that executive chefs stand for long periods of time and move quickly, requiring endurance. They are typically busy during mealtimes and frequently interact with both kitchen and front of house employees and sometimes customers.

Executive chefs must always ensure that their work environment is clean and sanitary. Executive chefs should constantly be aware of their surroundings since kitchens frequently have safety hazards. To reduce the chances of injury, executive chefs wear long sleeves and non-slip shoes. Executive chefs frequently work more than 40 hours a week and often work on weekends and holidays, as well as early in the morning and late in the evening.

An executive chef is a senior leadership role that requires years of experience and skill development. You can pursue multiple paths to gain that experience, including:. Our restaurant is seeking an experienced, motivated executive chef to join our team and help us maximize our growth. The executive chef will lead and train a team of sous chefs, cooks, apprentices and dishwashers as well as develop a menu and build creative and unique recipes.

Our executive chef will also manage inventory and ensure that the kitchen is always clean and in accordance with state and federal regulations.