Job Summary:

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Executive Chef to lead the culinary direction of our multi-unit Mexican restaurant group, headquartered in Houston, Texas. The ideal candidate will possess an exceptional mastery of authentic Mexican cuisine, with deep knowledge of its traditional techniques, regional diversity, and cultural significance. Equally important is the ability to translate these traditions into an elevated, contemporary dining experience that resonates with an international clientele.The successful candidate will demonstrate extensive leadership in high-end hotel kitchens and prestigious fine dining establishments, bringing a refined, disciplined approach to culinary operations and team management. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is highly desirable, due to the close collaboration required with our teams and partners in Mexico. International travel to Mexico will be required during the initial onboarding and training phase.This is an extraordinary opportunity for a culinary leader who is passionate about preserving and celebrating Mexico's gastronomic heritage while delivering innovation, consistency, and excellence at scale.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership across all culinary operations, ensuring consistent execution of authentic Mexican cuisine with the highest standards of quality, flavor, and presentation.
• Curate and develop innovative menus rooted in the traditions of Mexican gastronomy, highlighting regional specialties, heirloom ingredients, and time-honored techniques, while adapting to contemporary culinary trends.
• Lead, inspire, and mentor kitchen leadership teams and culinary staff, fostering a culture of excellence, professional development, and respect for Mexican culinary traditions.
• Establish and uphold standard operating procedures (SOPs) in food preparation, quality control, portioning, and presentation, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations at all times.
• Manage food cost control, inventory systems, and supplier partnerships, maintaining profitability without compromising the authenticity and quality of ingredients—many of which are sourced directly from Mexico.
• Collaborate with cross-functional corporate teams (Operations, Marketing, Finance, and Human Resources) to support brand positioning, seasonal campaigns, and strategic initiatives that showcase the richness of Mexican cuisine.
• Oversee the recruitment, onboarding, and continuous training of culinary personnel, ensuring that all team members are skilled in traditional Mexican cooking techniques, from nixtamalization to mole preparation, and other artisanal methods.
• Conduct regular quality audits and visits to all locations to ensure consistency in product delivery and adherence to the culinary vision.
• Represent the culinary ethos of the brand at media events, chef's tables, tastings, and engagements with strategic partners.
• Travel to Mexico during the initial training period and periodically thereafter to engage with producers, master artisans, and culinary innovators, ensuring authenticity and ongoing inspiration for the brand.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated expertise in managing multi-unit culinary operations, delivering consistency and excellence across multiple restaurant locations.
• In-depth knowledge of regional Mexican culinary traditions, ingredients, and cooking techniques, paired with a sophisticated understanding of contemporary presentation and international dining expectations.
• Language Requirements:
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is strongly preferred.
• Outstanding communication skills in both languages, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Education & Experience

• Degree or diploma in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field from a recognized institution. Formal training in Mexican gastronomy is highly valued.
• A minimum of five (5) years of progressive leadership experience as an Executive Chef, with a proven track record in luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine.