Executive Chef

ABOUT CHETOLA RESORT

For over 175 years, Chetola Resort has offered guests a timeless mountain escape in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Serving as the gateway to beautiful Blowing Rock, North Carolina, Chetola is a luxury haven where adventure meets tranquility. The resort blends refined hospitality with immersive outdoor experiences—from Orvis®-endorsed fly fishing to award-winning dining, spa indulgence, and family-friendly recreation. Under new ownership, we are embracing an exciting new chapter rooted in thoughtful renewal, authentic elegance, and exceptional guest service.

THE ROLE

Chetola Resort is seeking an accomplished and visionary Executive Chef to lead all aspects of our culinary program. In this senior leadership role, you will oversee Timberlake’s Restaurant, banquets and events, and resort-wide dining operations. You will drive menu innovation, elevate guest experiences, and mentor a high-performing culinary team while maintaining strong financial discipline. This is a unique opportunity for a passionate culinary leader to shape the future of Chetola’s dining program and leave a lasting mark on one of the Southeast’s most iconic resorts.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Culinary Leadership & Innovation

• Lead daily culinary operations across multiple outlets, ensuring consistency, quality, and excellence.
• Develop and execute creative, seasonal menus showcasing regional flavors and fresh, local ingredients.
• Uphold high culinary standards that reflect Chetola’s reputation for refined yet approachable hospitality.

Team Development & Culture

• Recruit, train, and mentor a team of sous chefs, line cooks, and prep staff.
• Foster a collaborative, professional, and inspiring kitchen culture.
• Oversee scheduling, staffing, and performance management of the culinary team.

Operational & Financial Excellence

• Manage food and labor budgets, inventory, and vendor relationships.
• Track food costs, minimize waste, and maintain profitability while delivering quality.
• Partner with F&B leadership to ensure seamless service and exceptional guest satisfaction.

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce sanitation, food safety, and workplace safety procedures in compliance with health regulations.
• Ensure proper food storage, rotation, and labeling.
• Model best practices in every aspect of culinary operations.

ABOUT YOU

• A passionate and creative culinary professional with proven leadership and communication skills.
• Experienced in leading high-volume, high-quality resort, hotel, or fine dining operations.
• Hospitality-driven with a guest-first mindset and an eye for detail.
• Calm, organized, and solutions-focused under pressure.

REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 7 years of progressive culinary leadership experience, including at least 3 as an Executive Chef or senior leader.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams while managing budgets.
• Serve Safe Certification (or ability to obtain within 60 days).
• Flexible availability including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.

WHY CHETOLA

• Lead a talented culinary team and influence the next era of Chetola’s dining program.
• Be part of one of the region’s most iconic resorts with strong potential for career growth.
• Competitive salary with eligibility for performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits for eligible full-time employees including health, dental, vision, supplemental benefits, PTO, and resort perks.
• A culture rooted in connection, craftsmanship, and care.