Resident Chef

Resident Chef (Sur La Table) – Job Description

Role Overview
The Resident Chef at Sur La Table is a full-time, on-site position within one of the company’s retail stores. With over 50–60 locations and the largest avocational cooking program in the U.S., Sur La Table offers a unique blend of premium kitchen goods, cooking classes, and community engagement. The Resident Chef leads the in-store culinary program, inspires customers, and drives both culinary and retail sales Lever+1.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

Recruit, mentor, and retain a high-performing culinary team to meet both culinary and retail business needs.

Lead, coach, and inspire associates to exceed performance expectations and maintain a positive team culture.

Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and create development plans for growth Lever+1.

Customer Experience & Brand Representation

Deliver memorable, educational cooking class experiences by following recipes and game plans while ensuring quality execution.

Represent Sur La Table’s brand and culture through engaging classes, private events, and community outreach.

Address and act on all customer feedback related to the culinary program to maintain satisfaction and loyalty Lever+1.

Sales & Business Performance

Develop and implement strategies to increase culinary and retail sales.

Analyze key performance metrics daily to optimize store performance.

Collaborate with store leadership to achieve sales goals through merchandising, marketing, and customer engagement Lever+1.

Operations & Compliance

Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with company policies, health, safety, and food sanitation regulations.

Maintain accurate inventory, minimize shrink, and control culinary expenses.

Manage staffing levels in line with seasonal business needs Lever+1.

Additional Duties

Model and ensure adherence to Sur La Table’s policies and standard operating procedures.

Partner with the General Manager to direct training for culinary employees.

Represent the culinary program in the community by building relationships with local restaurants and developing new class content Startup Jobs.

Skills & Qualifications

Strong culinary skills with experience in leading cooking classes.

Business acumen and ability to drive sales growth.

Excellent teaching and communication skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced retail environment.

Commitment to customer service excellence and brand representation Lever+1.

Work Environment
On-site in a retail store kitchen, this role requires hands-on cooking, customer interaction, and leadership responsibilities. The position is ideal for someone passionate about food, education, and building community through cooking.