Culinary Director

Leaf and Grain is a locally owned group of healthy quick-service eateries in Houston, TX. First opening 2017, Leaf and Grain now has four locations with an additional two units under construction. We are currently developing a second concept as well with intent to open the first outpost of that in early fall 2025.                       Candidates must have extensive restaurant experience, with at least several years in an executive or corporate chef level role. Formal culinary training at an accredited program is preferred, but not required. Candidates should have comfort with menu development, product costing, PandL management, designing and implementing QA protocols, and managing a team. To be successful in this position, the Culinary Director must have excellent attention to detail, display a sense of urgency and demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills. Candidates must have a self-driven "start-up" mindset and be a "˜no-task-too-small' team player that is willing to roll up their sleeves and get things done as circumstances demand. The Culinary Director role will include not only the existing concept, but the forthcoming one as well. We are looking for an individual who wants to grow with the company as we continue to expand. The Culinary Director will be responsible for: Developing new products consistent with Leaf and Grain's mission, operational competencies, and price-point Ensuring consistent, quality execution of existing products across all units Ongoing training with our Store Managers and Cooks Developing and managing quality-focused standard operating procedures across all units Managing relationships with suppliers Coordinating COGS initiatives with store-level teams and Company CFO Other responsibilities as needed The Culinary Director will report directly to the Senior Vice President of Operations and Product.   Start date: flexible, but targeting 3/3/25  Compensation: Highly competitive salary, largely dependent on experience and fit Potential for incentive-based equity (ownership) awards KPI based bonus eligible Competitive benefits package (healthcare, PTO, sick leave, etc) Major holidays off Very limited nights and weekends Relocation assistance possible for exceptional candidates Requirements: Requires living and working in-person in Houston, TX 2+ years as Executive or Corporate Chef (or similar role) required Experience with new product development Experience training others on new procedures and products Experience with new restaurant openings highly preferred Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop new talent Formal culinary training w/ certificate or degree strongly preferred, but not required Degree in hospitality, management, or business considered, but not required Familiarity with writing and implanting HACCP plans Comfort and competency working with computers

Created: 2025-01-31