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Executive Culinary Director Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Midwood Smokehouse

Executive Chef

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$90K/yr

As the Executive Chef at Midwood Smokehouse, you will oversee all culinary operations, from scheduling and strategic ordering based on sales trends to direct involvement in hiring and flawless shift ...

Midwood Smokehouse

Executive Chef

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

As the Executive Chef at Midwood Smokehouse, you will oversee all culinary operations, from scheduling and strategic ordering based on sales trends to direct involvement in hiring and flawless shift ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF

Cary, NC · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Benefits offered Driven by our passion in the pursuit of hospitality and culinary excellence ... You will prepare or direct the preparation of meals in accordance with corporate programs and ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF

Cary, NC · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

The exceptional care and culinary artistry of our team members is nurtured by training, developing ... You will prepare or direct the preparation of meals in accordance with corporate programs and ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF

Cary, NC · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Benefits offered Driven by our passion in the pursuit of hospitality and culinary excellence ... You will prepare or direct the preparation of meals in accordance with corporate programs and ...

NCSU

Executive Catering Chef

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

If you are a culinary professional who thrives on mentoring a talented kitchen team, staying ahead ... Direct, schedule, and mentor a talented Back-of-House (BOH) team, including the unit chef, sous ...

Morrison Living

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF

Cary, NC · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

The exceptional care and culinary artistry of our team members is nurtured by training, developing ... You will prepare or direct the preparation of meals in accordance with corporate programs and ...

Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.

Executive Chef

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

... to Director of Dining so now we are looking for an outstanding Chef to join our team! Do you love ... Ensures an adequate number of culinary associates each shift and ensures absences are covered.

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All JobsCulinary JobsExecutive Culinary Director JobsExecutive Culinary Director Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Executive Culinary Director information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$38.9K

$84.5K

$126.4K

How much do executive culinary director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive culinary director in Raleigh, NC is $84,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $95,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Executive Culinary Director vs Executive Chef?

AspectExecutive Culinary DirectorExecutive Chef
CredentialsTypically requires culinary degree and extensive leadership experienceRequires culinary training, certifications, and culinary skills
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple restaurants or culinary operations at a strategic levelManages kitchen operations and culinary staff in a specific restaurant or facility
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large hospitality groups, hotel chains, and corporate culinary settingsCommon in restaurants, hotels, and culinary establishments
Primary FocusStrategic culinary vision, brand development, and operational oversightFood quality, kitchen management, and culinary execution

The Executive Culinary Director focuses on strategic leadership and overseeing multiple culinary operations, while the Executive Chef concentrates on daily kitchen management and food quality. Both roles require culinary expertise, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive culinary director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Culinary Director, you need advanced culinary expertise, strong leadership abilities, and significant experience in kitchen management, often supported by a degree from a culinary school and several years in progressively responsible roles. Familiarity with menu development software, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Exceptional communication, creativity, and organizational skills set standout candidates apart by enabling them to inspire teams and consistently deliver innovative dining experiences. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining high culinary standards, efficient operations, and customer satisfaction in a competitive food service environment.

What is an executive culinary director?

An Executive Culinary Director is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing the culinary operations of a restaurant group, hotel chain, or food service organization. They develop menu concepts, set culinary standards, manage kitchen teams, and ensure consistency and quality across multiple locations. This role often involves strategic planning, budgeting, and collaborating with other departments to enhance the guest dining experience. Executive Culinary Directors also stay current with food trends and are instrumental in driving innovation within the organization.

How does an executive culinary director typically collaborate with other departments to ensure a cohesive dining experience?

An Executive Culinary Director works closely with departments such as operations, marketing, procurement, and front-of-house management to align culinary offerings with overall business objectives. They participate in menu planning meetings, coordinate with purchasing teams to source quality ingredients, and partner with marketing to promote new dishes or concepts. Regular communication with restaurant managers and staff ensures that culinary standards are maintained and guest feedback is addressed promptly. This cross-functional collaboration is vital for delivering a unified and exceptional dining experience.
What job categories do people searching Executive Culinary Director jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Executive Culinary Director jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Executive Culinary Director jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Executive Culinary Director job openings:
Executive Culinary Director jobs near you

Executive Chef

Midwood Smokehouse

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Executive Chef | Midwood SmokehouseJoin the Evolution of Barbecue with Midwood Smokehouse!

Midwood Smokehouse, a standout member of the FS Food Group portfolio, is actively seeking an Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and play a pivotal role in the ongoing evolution of our barbecue offerings. As the culinary leader of our establishment, you will orchestrate a dynamic array of flavors, guiding a dedicated team in delivering top-tier barbecue delights that have made Midwood Smokehouse a renowned name in Charlotte and beyond. Midwood Smokehouse is dedicated to authentic barbecue: no pellets, no gas, no power outlets; just hardwood and hard work. Our menu showcases a variety of barbecue styles, from North Carolina hog to Texas beef, celebrating the rich traditions of American barbecue.

Founded in 2011 in the vibrant Plaza Midwood neighborhood, Midwood Smokehouse has become a cornerstone of Charlotte’s culinary scene, celebrated for its exceptional barbecue. As part of FS Food Group, we have experienced significant growth, capturing the hearts and taste buds of barbecue aficionados in Charlotte, Columbia, and Raleigh, NC. With ambitious expansion plans on the horizon, we’re seeking visionary leaders like you to join us on this exciting journey.

Why join the Midwood Smokehouse | FS Food Group team?

  • Comprehensive and well-rounded training program
  • 100% Employer-paid Medical and Dental insurance for all members of the management team.
  • Employer-paid life insurance after 6 months of service.
  • Achievable Monthly Bonus Program
  • Paid Time Off starting at 6 months of service.
  • Continued career development and unlimited growth opportunities
  • A central office that handles many operational tasks, including marketing, accounting, purchasing, recruiting, repair/maintenance, and more.

A Day in the Life of Our Executive Chef:

As the Executive Chef at Midwood Smokehouse, you will oversee all culinary operations, from scheduling and strategic ordering based on sales trends to direct involvement in hiring and flawless shift execution. Your role is crucial in mentoring sous chefs and back-of-house staff, ensuring every dish upholds the Midwood Smokehouse standard.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Enhance guest experiences by collaborating with the general manager on food quality and consistency.
  • Lead and develop the culinary team, promoting a positive and motivating environment.
  • Manage daily kitchen operations and address restaurant concerns effectively.
  • Maintain rigorous health, safety, and sanitation standards.

Executive Chef Requirements:

  • High School Diploma; Four Year Degree or Culinary Degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 4 years culinary management experience in a high-volume environment, with a strong focus on barbecue and/or Tex-Mex cuisine.
  • Expertise in smoking techniques, pit equipment maintenance, butchery skills, and high-volume kitchen management.
  • Proficient in kitchen sanitation, safety standards, and inspection preparations.
  • Strong leadership, mentoring, communication, and time management skills.
  • Valid ServSafe certification is a plus.

Step into a role where your culinary skills can truly shine and lead the charge in defining barbecue excellence. Join us at Midwood Smokehouse for an opportunity to be part of a growing legacy in barbecue cuisine.

Company Information

FS Food Group is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,

national origin, veteran or disability status.

Disclaimer: The above job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities of the position, nor should it be construed as a contract. As with all positions at FS Food Group, employment is “at will” or voluntary on both the part of the employee or employer. This means employment can be terminated by either party with or without notice and/or with or without cause.

We’re your neighborhood smokehouse using nothing but Cackalacky hickory hardwood and hard work to make the best barbecue around. We celebrate barbecue styles from across the country. Texas brisket, Memphis-style ribs, Kansas City burnt ends, and—of course—Carolina chopped pork from our own back yards. Barbecue is for everyone, so we can’t wait to see y’all soon.