Hiring an experienced Head Chef

Shadowbird is thrilled to announce an exciting new culinary concept set to launch on the North Shore in early 2025. We’re seeking a talented and experienced Head Chef to lead this dual-level restaurant concept, with one floor focusing on elevated casual Italian cuisine and the other offering classic bar/pub fare. This is a rare opportunity to bring your vision and leadership to life in a community-centered, high-energy dining destination.

Position Overview

As Head Chef at Shadowbird, you’ll work closely with ownership to oversee kitchen operations, lead a skilled culinary team, maintain the highest food quality standards, and deliver a memorable guest experience. This role will combine creative menu development, hands-on training, and team mentorship while ensuring financial and operational targets are met.

Key Responsibilities

1. Oversee All Culinary Operations: Lead kitchen operations across both casual Italian and bar/pub concepts, ensuring consistency, quality, and exceptional presentation for every dish.
2. Menu Development and Culinary Innovation: Develop seasonal menus with an eye for fresh, locally sourced ingredients that match each floor’s concept and inspire guests to return.
3. Financial Management: Control food costs, manage inventory, and monitor labour costs, ensuring budget goals are met.
4. Staff Training and Mentorship: Mentor and inspire kitchen staff, providing hands-on training, setting clear goals, and fostering career development within our team.
5. Uphold Food Safety and Compliance: Ensure a safe and clean kitchen environment, meeting all health regulations and maintaining Food Safe standards.
6. Business Development: Participate in strategic planning and business development to drive restaurant success, including assisting in the creation of marketing and special events with culinary involvement.

Qualifications

1. Experience: Minimum 2 years in a chef or kitchen management position, with experience in both Italian and bar/pub fare an asset.
2. Culinary Leadership: Demonstrated success in a leadership role with skills in menu development, team building, and maintaining high culinary standards.
3. Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of food and labor cost management, with budgeting experience and a passion for hitting operational targets.
4. Strong Communication and Problem-Solving Skills: Able to work calmly under pressure, resolve conflicts, and keep a positive environment during busy service periods.
5. Education and Certification: Food Safe Level 1 certification required; Red Seal or formal culinary training is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

1. Base Salary: $75,000–$95,000, with the potential for up to 20% bonus paid quarterly based on performance.
2. Health Benefits: Extended health, vision, and dental coverage.
3. Career Growth: Be part of a unique restaurant opening with growth and advancement potential within our community-focused brand.

Why Join Shadowbird?

At Shadowbird, we aim to create a destination that embodies human connection and community, where locals and visitors alike can gather for great food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. We’re committed to fostering a positive, supportive culture and delivering meaningful hospitality experiences in a world where face-to-face interactions are more important than ever.

If you’re a passionate, experienced chef with a love for food and an entrepreneurial spirit, apply today to join Shadowbird and help us make our vision a reality on the North Shore.

Please note: Applicants must be legally able to work in Canada. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.