Executive Chef & Culinary Operations Director

Lead the Culinary Future of One of the Region's Premier Private Clubs Oxbow Country Club is seeking an experienced, passionate, and business-minded culinary leader to join our leadership team as Executive Chef & Culinary Operations Director. This pivotal role combines visionary leadership with hands-on culinary excellence, overseeing all aspects of food production, service, and kitchen management. The ideal candidate will inspire innovation in menu planning, ensure exceptional food quality, and foster a vibrant, team-oriented kitchen environment. Your energetic approach will drive operational success while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hospitality, and member satisfaction. Join us to elevate our culinary offerings and create memorable dining experiences that delight every member and every guest. The Executive Chef reports directly to the General Manager and serves as a key member of the Club's leadership team. About Oxbow Country Club Located just south of Fargo, ND, Oxbow Country Club is a vibrant private club serving more than 400 memberships through championship golf, dining, social events, weddings, banquets, tournaments, and family programming. Required Qualifications Minimum five years of Executive Chef or senior culinary leadership experience. Banquet and event culinary leadership experience. Proven experience managing labor budgets and food costs. Experience with inventory systems, purchasing, and recipe costing. Strong leadership and communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Private club experience preferred. Resort, hotel, upscale hospitality, or high-volume food and beverage experience considered. ServSafe Certification. Private club experience is preferred but not required. We welcome candidates with proven culinary leadership, operational management, and hospitality experience from resorts, hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality organizations. Duties Lead and manage all culinary operations, including kitchen staff supervision, food preparation, and service delivery to ensure seamless restaurant and catering experiences Develop innovative menus that reflect current trends and meet diverse dietary needs while maintaining cost efficiency and inventory control Oversee food safety protocols, sanitation standards, and compliance with health regulations to guarantee a safe dining environment Coordinate banquet and catering events from planning through execution, ensuring impeccable quality and timely service Manage inventory levels, procurement processes, and food cost controls to optimize resources and minimize waste Supervise shift management, ensuring smooth operations during busy periods while fostering a positive team atmosphere Mentor and develop culinary staff through training programs focused on cooking techniques, food handling, and hospitality excellence Requirements Proven experience in fine dining establishments with a strong background in restaurant management and culinary leadership Extensive banquet experience coupled with supervising teams in fast-paced environments Knowledge of dietary departments, catering operations, and food production standards Demonstrated expertise in menu planning, food management, inventory control, and kitchen operations Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate teams and promote a collaborative work culture Hands-on experience in food preparation, cooking techniques, and food safety practices Excellent organizational skills for shift management, inventory oversight, and operational planning Background in hospitality or related food industry fields; bartending experience is a plus Ability to thrive under pressure while maintaining attention to detail in all aspects of culinary service Compensation & Benefits and Salary Range: $95,000 - $120,000 annually Performance-Based Bonus Opportunity Health, dental, vision and retirement benefits Continuing education and professional development support Join our vibrant team where your culinary passion fuels extraordinary member and guest experiences! We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values innovation, teamwork, and excellence. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated leader eager to make a lasting impact on the Oxbow membership and staff. Pay: $95,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Food provided Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Work Location: In person