Executive Chef

Overview
About Brick & Brine

Brick + Brine is a place where craftsmanship, connection, and elevated dining come together. Rooted in elemental cooking, warm hospitality, and a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, Brick + Brine blends the richness of artisanal technique with the comfort of familiar flavors—reimagined through a modern, upscale lens.

We're seeking an innovative, highly skilled Executive Chef to lead the culinary vision and kitchen operations at one of Kalamazoo's premier dining destinations. This leader will honor the essence of Brick + Brine—artful cooking, attention to detail, shared moments—while continuing to evolve our menu and experience in ways that excite our guests and inspire our team.

This role is a rare opportunity to shape the ongoing culinary identity of a concept known for its sophistication, creativity, and commitment to exceptional guest experiences.

Guiding Vision: Crafted with Intention

"At Brick + Brine, every dish tells a story and every moment matters. We celebrate the art of cooking, the joy of gathering, and the beauty of craftsmanship. Through thoughtful ingredients, intentional preparation, and warm, genuine hospitality, Brick + Brine is a place where people come together, disconnect from the outside world, and experience something memorable. Our Executive Chef leads the culinary heartbeat of this vision."

Top Reasons to Work With GHG

• We are one of the Nation's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for
• You'll have the opportunity to work in a brand new restaurant
• You will grow your skills and experience in an exciting industry

Responsibilities
What You'll Be Doing

• Direct and oversee all culinary operations in an upscale, high-volume environment known for refined execution and elevated service standards.
• Develop, evolve, and maintain a seasonally inspired, ingredient-forward menu that reflects the heart of Brick + Brine's concept—craftsmanship, balance, and artistry.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a talented culinary team; elevate skill sets, build culture, and reinforce pride in the craft.
• Create and optimize systems for prep, production, plating, and service flow that support excellence, consistency, and efficiency.
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and compliance with Michigan health code regulations.
• Oversee inventory, ordering, vendor partnerships, product sourcing, and food cost management to ensure operational and financial excellence.
• Partner closely with FOH, Events, and Beverage leadership to ensure seamless guest experiences across dining room, bar, lounge, and private event spaces.
• Champion continuous culinary innovation—exploring trends, seasonal flavors, techniques, and presentations to keep the menu fresh, relevant, and exciting.
• Uphold Brick + Brine's brand identity through thoughtful presentation, intentional plating, and a commitment to quality in every detail.

Qualifications
What You Need for this Position

• Minimum 5 years of Executive Chef or senior kitchen leadership experience in an upscale, high-volume restaurant or fine dining environment.
• Culinary degree preferred but not required.
• Strong background in menu development, kitchen operations, and food/labor cost management.
• Demonstrated ability to build high-performing teams and foster a culture of professionalism, creativity, and accountability.
• Experience developing and executing systems that ensure consistency, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for modern culinary techniques, seasonal cooking, scratch kitchens, and elevated hospitality.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

What's in it for You

• Annual bonus opportunity
• Accrued PTO starts immediately and is available as soon as a minimum of 2 hours is accrued
• 401K with 100% match up to 3% and 50% match up for the next 2%
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Disability/Life Insurance
• Robust Employee Assistance Program providing a wide range of services including up to 7 free counseling sessions per year
• Health and wellness reimbursement up to $600 annually for items like massages, gym memberships, running shoes etc.
• 10% discount on GHG outlets
• (1) shift meal provided per day
• Discounted hotel rates at Choice Hotels Worldwide
• Monthly cell phone stipends
• Leadership development classes and training programs
• Parental Leave Program
• Flexible work schedule

Team Culture: Crafted Together

"Brick + Brine is driven by connection—between our team, our guests, and the food we create. We are artisans of hospitality, committed to excellence in every detail. Together, we bring warmth, creativity, and intention to every service. We lead with gratitude, cook with passion, and deliver experiences that stay with our guests long after they leave. Let's continue shaping something exceptional—together."

If you're a culinary leader passionate about seasonal cooking, elevated dining, team culture, and the craft of hospitality, we'd love to hear from you.Join us in shaping the continued evolution of Brick + Brine.

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