Job Details

Executive Chef - Hotel Hartness / Patterson Restaurant & Bar

Join to apply for the Executive Chef - Hotel Hartness / Patterson Restaurant & Bar role at Hay Creek Hotels

About Hotel Hartness: Nestled on a scenic 444-acre estate in Greenville, South Carolina, Hotel Hartness is a premier boutique hotel that blends Southern elegance with refined, modern hospitality. Featuring multiple culinary venues including Patterson Kitchen + Bar, The Captain, banquet spaces, and off-site catering, Hotel Hartness is a culinary destination in its own right.

The Executive Chef at Hotel Hartness is responsible for the overall back-of-house operations, including multiple outlets, banquet execution, menu development, kitchen staff leadership, and cost controls. This hands-on leadership role requires creativity, strategic thinking, strong financial acumen, and a relentless focus on quality, consistency, and guest satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all culinary outlets, including Patterson Kitchen + Bar, The Captain, banquets, off-site catering, breakfast room, and stewarding.


• Recruit, train, manage, and inspire the culinary and stewarding teams.


• Foster a team environment that supports Hotel Hartness Host Philosophy encouraging multi-skilled associates who go beyond job titles to enhance the guest experience.


• Ensure all food items meet exceptional taste, presentation, and timing standards.

Menu & Culinary Innovation

• Design seasonal and trend-driven menus tailored to hotel guests, special events, and group functions.


• Develop and document standardized recipes and plating guides.


• Source high-quality ingredients with a focus on local, fresh products.


• Collaborate with the Food & Beverage Director and Corporate Culinary Team on creative concepts and menu evolution.

Financial & Strategic Management

• Develop and manage kitchen budgets, including labor, food cost, and inventory control.


• Analyze food and labor costs to ensure profitability without compromising quality.


• Secure vendor partnerships that align with Hotel Hartness standards while optimizing pricing and availability.

Guest Experience & Events

• Ensure culinary excellence across all events, including weddings, private dining, holidays, and off-site catering.


• Work closely with the Sales and Events teams to craft custom menus and deliver flawless execution.


• Participate in promotional and media opportunities to highlight the culinary offerings of the hotel.

Health & Safety

• Enforce and model compliance with HACCP, health department regulations, and sanitation protocols.


• Ensure proper equipment use, kitchen cleanliness, and food safety at all times.


• Conduct routine inspections and training on health and safety procedures.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef experience in a luxury hotel, fine dining, or high-volume upscale environment.


• Degree or certification in Culinary Arts preferred.


• Proven experience managing multi-outlet and banquet operations.


• Strong financial understanding of budgeting, forecasting, food/labor cost controls.


• Passion for fresh, local, seasonal cuisine and creative menu design.


• Hands-on leadership style with a track record of team development and retention.


• Excellent communication and organizational skills.


• ServSafe certification required or ability to obtain.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus


• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k))


• Paid time off and holidays


• Professional development opportunities through Hay Creek Hotels


• A beautiful, collaborative work environment rooted in Southern hospitality