Executive Chef

Description

Do you live and breathe hospitality? Join the legendary Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel-an icon that has defined warmth and elegance for nearly 90 years. Here, professionalism, teamwork, and heartfelt service are more than words-they're the standard. We're seeking an Executive Chef who is passionate about their craft and driven by the details that elevate every guest experience. In this role, you'll lead all culinary operations across multiple outlets and banquet functions, continually evolving menus, developing your team, and managing food and labor costs to drive performance. You'll partner closely with sales and operations to exceed client expectations while ensuring consistent execution of our high standards across every touchpoint, from Cafe at the Cornhusker and Miller Time Pub & Grill to in-room dining and large-scale events.

As part of the Marcus Hotels & Resorts family, we take pride in being the city's benchmark for comfort, elegance, and celebration. Our hotel is more than a place to stay-it's a destination where guests come to connect, be inspired, and enjoy the magic our team brings to life every single day. With 300 beautifully appointed rooms and over 46,000 square feet of event space, our property hosts everything from business conferences to weddings. You'll be at the center of it all, surrounded by stunning features like our grand staircase, modern amenities including an indoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness center, and dining options such as the Cafe and Miller Time Pub & Grill. Come make history with us-right here in Nebraska's capital city.

What will you be doing?

• Lead and oversee all culinary operations, ensuring brand standards, quality, and consistency across outlets and banquets

• Manage departmental financial performance, including budgeting, labor, inventory, and cost controls

• Design and evolve menus based on trends, seasonality, and business needs, including special events and banquets

• Recruit, train, develop, and manage culinary team members, maintaining a high-performance and accountable culture

• Direct daily kitchen operations, including scheduling, production, and service execution to meet demand and standards

• Maintain strict food safety, sanitation, and compliance with company, brand, and regulatory requirements

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams (F&B, stewarding, banquets) and external vendors

• Ensure cleanliness, organization, and maintenance of all back-of-house areas and equipment

• Collaborate with leadership on strategic initiatives, budgeting, guest experience, and operational improvements

• Engage with guests and clients as needed to support events, enhance experiences, and represent the property externally

• Perform other duties as assigned

What do you bring to the role?

• 5+ years of Executive Chef experience, ideally in high-volume operations ($10M+ revenue), with broad knowledge of global and regional cuisines

• Formal culinary training preferred (minimum 2 years)

• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to build, lead, and develop high-performing teams

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and effectively engage staff and stakeholders

• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining professionalism and composure

• Strong operational knowledge of food products, kitchen equipment, and culinary techniques

• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously with strong organization and attention to detail

• Financial and analytical skills, including budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and interpreting reports

• Proficiency in basic computer systems for inventory, menu development, and operational management

• Physically able to meet the demands of the role, including extended standing, lifting up to 100 lbs., and working in varying kitchen conditions, with required food safety certifications (ServSafe or equivalent)

What's in it for you?

• Eligible for department head bonus program

• A free, well-balanced meal every shift

• Room discounts at Marcus Hotels & Resorts and Marriott locations

• Discounts at Marcus Hotels & Resorts restaurants, cafes, lounges, golfing, skiing, and spa

• Free parking

• "Two for one" movie theater coupons at Marcus Theatres

• Ability to grow your career and transfer from one property to another

• Early wage access

• Paid time off

• Flexible scheduling

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (offered after 30 days of employment), company-paid life insurance, employee assistance program offer, and 401k with employer match

• And more!

Salary Estimate: $95,000

About Us:

A division of The Marcus Corporation, Marcus Hotels & Resorts has a rich 60-year history of operational and service excellence. We are "People Pleasing People" who strive daily to create extraordinary experiences for guests and associates alike. Focused on expanding our U.S.-based portfolio of 17 hotels and resorts, our properties are known for their unique character and style.

Note: This document describes the general nature and level of work required of people in the job. It is not intended to be an all-encompassing list of responsibilities, duties, and skills.

The Lincoln Cornhusker Marriott is an equal opportunity employee.