Job description:
Build Exceptional Culinary Experiences at One of St. Louis' Premier Private Clubs
Westwood Country Club is seeking an experienced, passionate, and hands-on Executive Banquet Chef to lead the culinary execution of weddings, member events, golf tournaments, holiday celebrations, business meetings, and private functions in our newly renovated, state-of-the-art kitchen.
This is an outstanding opportunity for a talented culinary professional who enjoys leading by example. Working alongside an accomplished Executive Chef, you will help create memorable dining experiences while mentoring and developing a skilled culinary team.
If you are passionate about exceptional food, thrive in a fast-paced hospitality environment, and take pride in delivering outstanding banquet experiences, we invite you to join our team.
Full Relocation Support Considered for the Right Candidate
Position Summary
The Executive Banquet Chef is responsible for the overall culinary execution of the Club's banquet and private event operations. This working leadership position requires an individual who is equally comfortable leading a team, managing production, and personally preparing and presenting exceptional cuisine.
The successful candidate will oversee banquet kitchen operations while maintaining the highest standards of food quality, consistency, presentation, sanitation, and teamwork.
Primary Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership
- Lead all banquet culinary operations for weddings, golf tournaments, member events, holiday celebrations, business meetings, and private functions.
- Personally prepare, cook, plate, and oversee food production for all banquet events.
- Ensure every event meets the Club's high culinary and presentation standards.
- Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop banquet menus, seasonal offerings, and special event features.
Operations Management
- Plan production schedules to ensure seamless execution of multiple events.
- Maintain exceptional food quality, consistency, portion control, and presentation.
- Monitor food costs, labor costs, inventory, and waste reduction initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal food safety and sanitation regulations.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment.
- Assist with ordering, inventory management, and equipment care.
Team Leadership
- Recruit, train, coach, mentor, and develop banquet kitchen staff.
- Prepare staff schedules based on event volume and operational needs.
- Foster a positive, respectful, and professional team culture built on accountability and collaboration.
- Lead by example through professionalism, teamwork, and a hands-on approach.
Collaboration
- Partner closely with the Executive Chef, Event Director, Dining Managers, and Front-of-House leadership to ensure flawless event execution.
- Communicate effectively across departments to deliver exceptional member and guest experiences.
Qualifications
Required
- Five (5) or more years of progressive culinary leadership experience.
- Proven experience leading banquet or high-volume culinary operations.
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple events simultaneously while maintaining exceptional quality.
- Comprehensive knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by club operations.
Preferred
- Private club, luxury hotel, resort, or fine dining experience.
- Culinary degree or formal culinary training.
- Experience with banquet menu development.
- Experience managing food and labor costs.
- Experience supervising and developing culinary teams.
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification.
Why Join Westwood Country Club?
- Newly renovated kitchen with modern equipment.
- Opportunity to work alongside an experienced Executive Chef.
- Diverse banquet program featuring weddings, tournaments, member events, and private functions.
- Collaborative leadership environment.
- Stable, respected private club committed to culinary excellence.
- Opportunity to make a lasting impact while advancing your culinary leadership career.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Food provided
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- This position is located in St. Louis, Missouri - do you understand you will need to relocate to St. Louis, Missouri.
- Describe the kitchen culture you have intentionally created or improved. What specific actions did you take?
- What is the largest and most complex banquet operation you have personally led?
- Describe the most challenging banquet or special event you've ever executed.
- Our Executive Banquet Chef is expected to lead from the front—not from an office. Describe how you balance cooking, leading, and coaching.
- How do you create a culture of urgency without creating unnecessary stress or burnout?
- During a 300-person plated dinner, your prep team begins falling behind schedule. Walk us through exactly what you do over the next 30 minutes.
- This position reports directly to our Executive Chef. Describe your relationship with previous Executive Chefs.
- Why do you want to locate to St. Louis, Missouri?
- What is your desired annual base salary range? Compensation is competitive and will be determined based on your relevant executive culinary leadership experience, banquet expertise, education, certifications, and demonstrated qualifications.
Experience:
- Head Banquet Chef: 5 years (Required)
- Management : 5 years (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Westwood, MO 63131: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
