Lifeworks Restaurant Group delivers elevated workplace dining experiences focused on culinary excellence, hospitality, wellness, and sustainability. As part of Aramark s Workplace Experience Group, we partner with industry-leading clients to craft forward-thinking food programs that energize, nourish, and inspire.
We are seeking a dynamic and creative Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations at a high-profile corporate cafe within a premier financial institution's Jersey City campus.
The Executive Chef is the culinary leader responsible for menu development, daily food production, team leadership, and operational excellence. This role demands a strong balance of creativity and discipline someone who can deliver exceptional guest experiences while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, consistency, and financial performance.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to;
Develop seasonal, wellness-focused menus aligned with Lifeworks culinary identity and the client's expectations.
Lead recipe development, presentation standards, and ongoing culinary innovation across all dining platforms.
Ensure food is prepared to the highest quality and safety standards.
Oversee all back-of-house operations, including production schedules, ordering, inventory management, and vendor compliance.
Maintain full compliance with food safety, sanitation, and corporate policies.
Manage food and labor cost targets while optimizing operational efficiency.
Lead, mentor, and develop a culinary team with a focus on hospitality, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement.
Recruit, onboard, train, and evaluate back-of-house staff.
Foster a positive kitchen culture built on respect, collaboration, and high performance.
Partner closely with the onsite client and management team to deliver a best-in-class dining experience.
Engage with cafe guests, gather feedback, and incorporate insights into cafe enhancements.
Support special events, stack catering, and executive-level catering as needed.
Minimum requirements for this role:
5+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience, preferably in corporate dining, high-volume restaurants, hotels, or upscale hospitality.
2+ years of experience managing a union environment.
Strong knowledge of contemporary culinary trends, global flavors, wellness cuisine, and scratch cooking.
Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, food cost, and labor planning.
Excellent communication skills and a passion for creating memorable guest experiences.
ServSafe certification required; additional food safety credentials a plus.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to thoughtfully and effectively communicate digitally.
Experience with the Microsoft Office suite of applications.
Experience in a client facing management role.
Compensation;
Competitive salary.
Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k).
Paid time off, holidays, and work-life balance.
Monday-Friday, daytime schedule.
Opportunities for growth within Lifeworks and the broader Aramark organization
An opportunity to drive culinary creativity and own the development process.
