Event Chef - Times Square EDITION

Event ChefJF Restaurants is a New York City-based hospitality group led by Michelin-starred Chef and Restaurateur John Fraser.We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Event Chef to serve in a hybrid leadership role overseeing both events/banquets and la carte kitchen operations at the Times Square Edition. This position is responsible for executing exceptional culinary experiences across catered events while also maintaining high standards of daily restaurant service. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable leading large-scale events and managing the precision and consistency required for la carte dining. This role requires strong operational leadership, creativity, and the ability to seamlessly pivot between event execution and day-to-day kitchen management.Key ResponsibilitiesCulinary Execution & Menu DevelopmentStandardize recipes and ensure consistency in both event and la carte serviceOversee execution of banquet/event menus as well as daily restaurant offeringsCollaborate with FOH managers and reservations teams to align menus with service flowLead tastings, pre-shift lineups, and ongoing training to maintain excellence across all service stylesFood & Labor Cost ManagementSupport achievement of food cost goals through ordering, inventory, and waste controlManage vendor relationships and product sourcingOversee BOH scheduling across both event and restaurant operationsMonitor labor costs and report regularly to the Executive Chef, optimizing staffing based on business needsTeam Leadership & DevelopmentRecruit, hire, onboard, and train BOH team membersLead and develop teams across both event and la carte service environmentsCreate SOPs for prep, production, and service to ensure consistency across all outletsSupport growth and succession planning for Sous Chefs and line staffEvent & Service CoordinationLead execution of all catered events, ensuring quality, timing, and presentation standards are metParticipate in BEO meetings and collaborate with FOH and events teamsOversee la carte service during key meal periods, ensuring a smooth and elevated guest experienceAct as a key bridge between event production and daily restaurant operationsCompliance & SafetyEnsure adherence to DOH and HACCP standards across all kitchen operationsMaintain cleanliness, organization, and food safety protocolsUphold company standards for sanitation and operational excellenceOperational CoverageProvide leadership across all culinary areas including catering, restaurant service, room service, commissary, and special eventsStep in as needed to support both event production and la carte service executionQualifications4+ years of experience in a high-volume culinary leadership role (event/banquet and la carte experience strongly preferred)Strong understanding of food cost control, labor management, and multi-outlet kitchen operationsProven ability to lead teams in both structured event environments and fast-paced restaurant serviceExcellent communication, organization, and attention to detailNYC Food Protection Certification requiredPassion for culinary excellence, team development, and delivering exceptional guest experiencesWhat We OfferCompetitive salary (based on experience)Comprehensive health benefitsCommuter benefits401KOpportunities for growth and advancementA dynamic role with exposure to both events and restaurant operationsCollaborative, high-energy work environmentJohn Fraser Restaurants is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.Salary Range$80,000 - $100,000 USDThis role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a dynamic and growing team while making a meaningful impact on our company. If you meet the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, we encourage you to apply and join our team!