Executive Chef at Goodwin Recruiting - New York

Executive Chef – Fine Dining | Sonoma, CA

A highly regarded, high-volume fine dining restaurant in Sonoma is seeking an Executive Chef to lead all culinary operations. This role oversees multiple kitchens and requires a confident, organized leader with a refined culinary background.

The ideal candidate is a creative, disciplined chef who can inspire and develop their team, maintain exceptional quality standards, and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This is a career-defining opportunity to lead at a high-profile, critically acclaimed restaurant in the heart of wine country — the perfect platform for a talented, ambitious chef to make their mark.

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive salary ($130K+, depending on experience)

• Performance-based bonus

• Comprehensive benefits package

• Paid time off

Requirements & Qualifications

• Proven experience leading fine dining, high-volume kitchens (200–400+ covers nightly)

• Background overseeing multiple teams or kitchen locations

• Skilled in training, mentoring, and developing culinary staff

• Strong organizational and vendor management skills

• Ability to manage food costs and drive profitability

• Clear, proactive communication with FOH and BOH teams

• Calm, collaborative leadership style under pressure

• Experience creating schedules, conducting reviews, and maintaining accountability

• Proficiency in vendor account management and timely payment processes

Preferred Background & Skills

• Expertise in elevated, seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine

• Strong financial and analytical acumen

• Demonstrated success building inclusive, high-performing kitchen cultures

• Ability to streamline operations and improve efficiency across teams

• Balance of creative vision and operational discipline at scale