Job Description
Forefront is dedicated to enhancing lives through exceptional culinary and support services. As a leader on our team, you play a vital role in driving operational success within a healthcare environment. Through our core values Tenacity, Integrity, Creativity, Service Excellence, Safety, and Caring, you will lead teams, ensure high-quality service delivery, and help create a clean, safe, and healing environment for all. If you are passionate about leading people, developing teams, and making a meaningful impact, we invite you to join us. Why You'll Love Leading With Us: Supportive Culture: Collaborate with a leadership team that values input, accountability, and continuous improvement Growth-Focused: Access to leadership development, Lean Six Sigma opportunities, and career advancement pathways Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), pet insurance, and unlimited PTO Compensation: $67,000-$70,000 yearly The Executive Chef is the senior culinary leader responsible for the overall success of dining operations at a Forefront-managed community or account. This role has full accountability for food quality, resident/patient satisfaction, financial performance, culinary team leadership, regulatory compliance, and innovation. The Executive Chef serves as both a hands-on culinary leader and strategic operator, ensuring exceptional dining experience while maintaining strong cost controls, operational standards, and team development. Position Type and Expected Hours of Work This is an exempt salaried position, with expected hours to include: days, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Essential Functions and Duties Culinary Leadership & Quality Lead all culinary operations including production, menu execution, catering, and special events. Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality, scratch or fresh-prepared food aligned with Forefront standards. Develop and execute seasonal menus, resident-driven programs, and special dining events. Maintain presentation, taste, and service standards at all times. Champion innovation, resident engagement, and culinary experience enhancement. Financial & Operational Performance Own food cost, labor cost, and controllable expense performance. Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and purchasing strategies. Implement inventory controls, ordering systems, and waste reduction programs. Deliver financial results aligned with contractual and company targets. Partner with the General Manager and Regional leadership on performance strategy. Team Leadership & Talent Development Recruit, train, develop, and retain high-performing culinary teams. Lead Sous Chefs, Managers, Supervisors, and frontline culinary staff. Build strong bench strength, succession planning, and training programs. Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, teamwork, and pride. Conduct performance evaluations, coaching, and corrective action when needed. Safety, Sanitation & Compliance Ensure full compliance with all health department, ServSafe, HACCP, OSHA, CMS, and company standards. Lead kitchen sanitation, food safety, and inspection readiness at all times. Maintain documentation, training logs, and audit readiness. Drive a strong culture of food safety and workplace safety. Resident / Client Experience Partner with residents, patients, clients, and leadership to drive satisfaction. Participate in resident councils, food committees, tastings, and feedback sessions. Respond proactively to concerns and continuously improve the dining experience. Represent Forefront and the culinary program in a highly professional manner. Program & Concept Execution Execute corporate programs, st