Alila Napa Valley
At Alila Napa Valley, we deliver unforgettable culinary experiences rooted in the bounty of Northern California. Violetto, our signature restaurant, showcases modern cuisine with local ingredients and a dedication to exceptional hospitality. We are seeking a passionate and driven Sous Chef to join our culinary leadership team.
Position Summary:
The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef in overseeing all culinary operations at Violetto and Salvia Terrace & Lounge. This leader plays a key role in maintaining Forbes Five-Star and Michelin-caliber standards while leading the kitchen team in daily operations, menu execution, and team development. The ideal candidate is hands-on, quality-driven, and focused on inspiring excellence in both technique and service.
Key Responsibilities:
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Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring food quality, consistency, and presentation meet luxury standards.
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Assist with menu planning, development, and seasonal updates based on local availability.
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Train, coach, and mentor kitchen staff in culinary technique, cleanliness, and professionalism.
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Maintain proper inventory, ordering, and food cost controls in partnership with the Executive Chef.
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Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation guidelines.
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Support collaboration across departments to deliver exceptional guest experiences, including for special events and VIP dining.
- Support senior leadership by developing and assuming basic management responsibilities
- Assume the role of liaison between all departments within the culinary division and all other hotel departments
- Supervise the preparation and cooking of various food items
- Develop and implement creative menu items that adhere to Hyatt brand standards
- Plan, coordinate & implement special events and holiday functions
- Manage hourly kitchen employees through scheduling, payroll, training, coaching, evaluating and hiring
- May manage other key culinary leadership rolls including supervisor and other less senior Sous Chefs
- Lead and coach the team towards achieving exceptional guest service and employee satisfaction results
- Monitor food production, ordering, cost, and quality and consistency on a daily basis
- Ensure proper safety and sanitation of all kitchen facilities and equipment
Qualifications
- In-depth skills and knowledge of all kitchen operations
- Possess strong leadership, communication, organization and relationship skills
- Experience with training, basic financial management and customer service
- Proficient in general computer knowledge
- A true desire to exceed guest expectations in a fast-paced customer service environment
- Capable of producing a consistent product in a timely manner
- Strong training and communication skills
- Culinary education and/or on the job training, hotel experience preferred
- Geographic and schedule flexibility preferred