Director of Culinary Services

Job Title: Culinary Director - LifeSpire of Virginia, Lakewood

Salary Starting at $90,000k+ based on experience Location: Richmond, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Senior Living / Restaurant / Culinary Arts

Join Our Calling To Elevate Senior Living Through Culinary Excellence
At Lakewood, we believe that food is more than sustenance-it's a source of joy, comfort, and connection. We're seeking a passionate and experienced Culinary Director to lead our culinary team in delivering an exceptional dining experience for our residents. If you are driven by integrity, thrive on creativity, and believe in the power of teamwork, we invite you to become a part of our leadership team.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Culinary Vision

• Oversee all culinary operations across multiple dining venues within the community, including fine dining, fast casual, catering and state compliant healthcare dining
• Develop and execute seasonal, resident-focused menus that balance taste, nutrition, and visual presentation
• Introduce creative menu innovations and dining concepts tailored to evolving resident preferences and dietary needs

Team Development & Culture

• Recruit, train, and inspire a team of chefs, kitchen staff, and dining personnel to uphold excellence in food quality and hospitality
• Foster a culture of collaboration, professional growth, and continuous learning within the culinary team
• Lead by example with professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to high standards

Operations & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all local, state, and federal food safety and sanitation standards (e.g., ServSafe, HACCP protocols)
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment
• Collaborate with maintenance and facilities teams to ensure equipment is functional, clean, and compliant

Resident Experience & Engagement

• Regularly engage with residents to gather feedback, understand preferences, and adapt menus accordingly
• Partner with life enrichment teams to create memorable culinary events, themed dinners, and interactive experiences (e.g., cooking demos, tastings, holiday feasts)
• Serve as a visible, approachable leader in the dining environment, ensuring service and presentation exceed expectations

Financial Management

• Develop and manage department budgets, labor forecasting, and cost control strategies
• Optimize food purchasing and inventory control in partnership with vendors and procurement teams
• Track key performance metrics, including resident satisfaction, food costs, and team efficiency

Cross-Departmental Collaboration

• Work closely with the Executive Director, Wellness Director, and other leadership team members to support the overall resident experience
• Collaborate with marketing teams on tours, open houses, and promotional events showcasing the culinary program
• Participate in leadership meetings and strategic planning for continuous improvement

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a senior culinary leadership role, preferably in hospitality, healthcare, or upscale senior living
• Culinary degree or equivalent experience required; ServSafe Certification preferred
• Proven track record of leading and inspiring high-performing culinary teams
• Strong understanding of nutrition, special diets, and food service standards
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills
• A passion for elevating dining experiences while maintaining high standards of integrity

Our Core Values:

• Integrity: We do the right thing, even when no one is watching. Ethical leadership is at the heart of our culture.
• Creativity: We innovate constantly to delight our residents and evolve with their tastes and needs.
• Teamwork: We believe that great things happen when we work together in support of our shared mission.