Executive Chef

Job Posting: Executive Chef – Crooked Water Golf Club Crooked Water Golf Club, located in Minnetrista, MN, was established in 1970 and is a fun, welcoming, family-oriented private golf club just 25 minutes west of Minneapolis. The Club boasts a friendly and comfortable clubhouse featuring a full-service bar, restaurant, golf shop, and space for special events. Crooked Water is currently undergoing a complete course renovation, led by renowned golf architect Jay Blasi, which will be fully open in 2027. The renovation will feature a championship 18-hole golf course, an expanded outdoor practice facility, and a 9-hole short course. Crooked Water is committed to continually enhancing the member experience and is focused on an exciting future. We currently have 285 golf members and 40 social members, and we are growing. As a member of our staff, the Executive Chef will join a positive and welcoming culture rooted in service, teamwork, professionalism, and fun. Crooked Water Golf Club is seeking a talented and passionate culinary leader who is committed to elevating every aspect of the member dining experience. Our overall focus is to provide an exceptional pub fare-style dining experience that combines the comfort and familiarity of member favorites with the quality, presentation, consistency, and hospitality expected of a premier private club. We are committed to continually elevating the member dining experience through fresh ingredients, thoughtful preparation, innovative menu offerings, and exceptional service, while maintaining the welcoming and approachable atmosphere that defines Crooked Water Golf Club. The Executive Chef will lead all culinary operations, including a la carte dining, banquet events, and special member experiences. This is achieved by seeking input and feedback from members and teammates, embracing innovation, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality and consistency. The successful candidate will be a visible and engaged presence throughout the Club, fostering relationships with members, collaborating with the Dining & Social Committee and management team, and continually seeking opportunities to enhance the overall dining experience. The Executive Chef will ensure that all food - whether banquet, a la carte, takeout, or grab-and-go - meets the standards of excellence established at Crooked Water. They will develop systems and training programs that promote consistency, accountability, and teamwork while inspiring their staff to deliver exceptional results every day. The Role Foster a team environment where all team members can fulfill their respective duties in order to provide maximum flexibility and a high-quality product at a reasonable cost. Lead by example, be willing to help in any area, and assist with any task required at the time. Be comfortable leading and managing back-of-house teammates, while possessing the confidence and skill to interact with Club members during both high-volume and low-volume periods. The Executive Chef serves as the visible leader and ambassador of the Club's culinary program. Be responsible for hiring, training, and evaluating culinary employees. Develop, implement, and monitor effective training programs to ensure consistency in all member dining experiences, clearly communicate expectations, and maintain effective working relationships between front-of-house and back-of-house teams. Be personally responsible for all food that leaves the kitchen. Supervise and work on the line during banquets and private events, expedite or work the line during a la carte service, and review takeout and grab-and-go items to ensure quality standards are met. Add creative flair to our culinary offerings, partnering with the management team and Dining & Social Committee to bring new energy and excitement to menus and events. Monitor culinary trends while maintaining offerings that appeal to the membership and position Crooked Water as a preferred dining destination. Develop recipes and portion specifications in accordance with member preferences, nutritional considerations, ease of preparation, and budgetary objectives. Coordinate all purchasing activities, ensuring optimal pricing and a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Prepare annual capital requests, outlining equipment and facility needs and supporting rationale. Be responsible for all aspects of the culinary budget, including labor, food costs, and operating expenses. Identify opportunities to improve efficiencies while maintaining or enhancing member satisfaction. Maintain a motivating, productive, and team-oriented work environment. Be an exceptional communicator with the interpersonal skills necessary to consistently exceed member and guest expectations. Embody a high-energy, outgoing, and approachable presence at all times. Develop professional relationships with members and their families. Learn their names, preferences, and expectations to enhance the overall dining experience. Attend management and staff meetings, bringing new ideas to enhance the overall Club experience while collaborating with fellow department managers. Perform other duties as assigned. Preferred Qualifications Minimum of five years of progressive culinary leadership experience in a high-quality food service environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Prior private club, resort, hospitality, or upscale casual dining experience preferred. ServSafe certification required (or ability to obtain upon hire). Demonstrated success in team leadership, menu development, cost control, and member or guest engagement. Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Schedule Due to the nature of the Club business, the schedule will vary based on Club activities and seasonal demands. Longer hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, should be expected during the peak season. Reports To General Manager Position Type Full-time, available August 1, 2026. Includes a competitive compensation package, performance bonus opportunity, and comprehensive benefits. Compensation Commensurate with qualifications and experience. How to Apply Please email your resume and salary requirements to: Lisa Wagner Controller / Director of Human Resources lwagner@crookedwatergc.com No phone calls or agencies, please. Crooked Water Golf Club is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pay: $65,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year Benefits: Food provided Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Work Location: In person