EXECUTIVE CHEF / FOOD DIRECTOR

Share this jobExecutive Chef / Food DirectorNational Willa Cather Center / Hotel GarberDate Posted March 20, 2026Location Red Cloud, NECategory CulinaryJob type Full-TimeCompany DescriptionHotel Garber is a newly renovated boutique hotel in the heart of Red Cloud, Nebraska—a town rich in history and cultural significance. Our team is dedicated to creating a unique and memorable guest experience rooted in heritage tourism, warm hospitality, and a deep connection to the local community. At the center of that experience is our food and beverage program, which emphasizes seasonal cuisine sourced from local producers whenever possible. Our on-site restaurant offers an intimate dining experience with seating for up to 35 guests, along with private event spaces that can accommodate gatherings of up to 75. Whether serving breakfast to overnight guests or hosting specially themed diners and events, we aim to deliver food that is simple, exceptional, and reflective of the region.Job DescriptionWe are seeking an experienced, community-oriented Executive Chef / Food & Beverage Director to lead the strategic vision and day-to-day operations of all food and beverage functions at Hotel Garber.This role combines creative culinary leadership with strong business acumen. The ideal candidate will oversee culinary excellence, restaurant and bar operations, budgeting, staffing, guest experience, and compliance with health and safety standards. You will be both a builder and a steward—someone who can create something special while managing it with discipline and care.We are looking for a leader who is kind, hard-working, and energized by the opportunity to shape a new venture in a distinctive setting.This is a unique opportunity to develop an inviting, concept-driven restaurant that serves both local residents and visitors from around the world. Many of our guests come to Red Cloud to engage with the life and work of Willa Cather, and our food and hospitality should reflect the same sense of place, authenticity, and quiet excellence.Red Cloud is home to the National Willa Cather Center’s museum, archive, and bookstore, and features the largest collection of historic sites associated with a single American author. Our goal is to create a food and beverage experience that complements this cultural landscape—grounded, welcoming, and memorable.Culinary LeadershipDevelop, implement, and evolve locally inspired menus for the restaurant, banquets, catering, and special events.Ensure consistency, quality, presentation, and portion control of all food itemsEstablish standardized recipes, plating guidelines, and food specifications for Catering, Banquets, and Restaurant.Stay current with food trends, seasonal offerings, and guest preferences in the region.Food & Beverage OperationsOversee all food and beverage outlets, including restaurant, bar, banquets, and catering with a potential to expand services to the adjoining Willa Cather Center and its venues.Ensure seamless coordination between kitchen, service, and bar teamsMaintain high standards of guest service and overall dining experienceAddress and resolve guest concerns related to food and beverage operationsFinancial Management & Cost ControlDevelop and manage F&B budgets, forecasts, and financial targets as set forth by ownershipControl food, beverage, and labor costs while maintaining quality standards.Oversee purchasing protocols, inventory control, vendor negotiations, and pricing strategies.Build relationships with suppliers to support purchasing of food and beverage products in a remote environment.Analyze financial reports and implement corrective actions as needed with the property team.Leadership & Team DevelopmentRecruit, train, schedule, and manage culinary and F&B staff (Restaurant, Bar, and Banquets).Establish performance standards and conduct regular evaluations.Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and professional growth.Compliance & SafetyEnsure proper staffing levels to meet operational demandsEnsure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and alcohol service regulations.Enforce HACCP standards, health codes, and company policies.Oversee cleanliness, equipment maintenance, and safety procedures.Strategy & Brand DevelopmentCollaborate with senior leaders at National Willa Cather Center and senior management on F&B strategy and the development of concepts for Hotel Garber.Lead menu engineering, pricing, and promotional initiatives Support marketing efforts, events, and seasonal programming as presented by General Manager and Marketing team.Compensationthis position is: salaried, $50,000 - $75,000Application instructionsPlease click here to sign in and view application details.If you are not registered, you'll be prompted to do so. Don't worry, it's free!DeadlineApril 30, 2026Apply NowView similar jobsHistoric Restaurant Rural Restaurant Small Town Seasonal cuisine Farm-to-table Regional American Small-batch / artisanal From-scratch cooking Local sourcing Simple elevated cuisineShare this job