head chef

Position: Head Chef Location: St. Catharines, ON Job Type: Full-Time | Permanent Salary: $70,000?$90,000 (commensurate with experience) Position Overview We're looking for a Head Chef to lead and build an exceptional culinary program at Helliwell Hall. This is an opportunity to shape the dining experience and be part of a growing destination. The ideal candidate leads with creativity and collaboration, takes pride in delivering exceptional food, and enjoys bringing new ideas to the menu. You'll have the opportunity to work in a brand-new, state-of-the-art kitchen, with access to local farmland in Niagara-on-the-Lake, supported by a growing Niagara-based hospitality company committed to creating memorable guest experiences. While culinary experience is an asset, we place even greater value on vision, leadership, work ethic, and the ability to inspire a high-performing team. Target opening is Early Fall. Relocation assistance and a potential accommodation package are available for the right candidate. *Key Responsibilities* Operations * Oversee all day-to-day kitchen operations, including purchasing, inventory, food preparation, service, and food cost management. * Develop efficient kitchen systems that support consistency, productivity, and profitability. * Ensure kitchen equipment is properly maintained and operating safely. Leadership * Coach, mentor, and develop a high-performing kitchen team. * Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement. * Work collaboratively with front-of-house leadership to deliver an exceptional guest experience. Food Quality and Safety * Lead the development of seasonal menus, daily features, and special event offerings. * Elevate tavern-style cuisine through quality ingredients, creativity, and consistent execution. * Maintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation, consistency, and cleanliness. * Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and HACCP regulations. Brand and Community Engagement * Help build Helliwell Hall's culinary reputation through exceptional food and memorable guest experiences. * Collaborate with the marketing team to promote the menu through social media, special events, and community partnerships. * Share the story behind the menu, local ingredients, and the culinary experience to strengthen the Helliwell Hall brand. *Qualifications* The ideal candidate will have: * Experience leading a professional kitchen as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or in another leadership role. * A culinary degree, diploma, or equivalent combination of education and hands-on experience. * Strong culinary skills in menu development, recipe creation, and food presentation. * A passion for elevating tavern-style cuisine through quality, creativity, and consistency. * The ability to lead, coach, and motivate a kitchen team. * An understanding of food costs, inventory management, labour scheduling, and kitchen operations. * Knowledge of HACCP, food safety, sanitation, and regulatory requirements. * The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. * Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and special events. We welcome experienced chefs as well as talented, up-and-coming culinary leaders who are eager to grow. While experience is valued, we place equal importance on leadership, vision, work ethic, and a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences. HOW TO APPLY Interested applicants are asked to submit their resume to [email protected] Only applicants selected to move forward in the recruitment process will be contacted. Pay: $70,000.00-$90,000.00 per year Application question(s): * Do you have a culinary degree, diploma, or equivalent combination of education and hands-on experience? Licence/Certification: * Food Safety Certification (required) Work Location: In person