Executive Chef

About the Role

SSP Canada is currently seeking a seasoned Executive Chef to lead culinary operations across multiple food and beverage outlets at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This senior leadership position involves directing kitchen teams, elevating food standards, and ensuring operational excellence in a dynamic, multi-unit airport setting. The successful candidate will work closely with operations and restaurant leaders to deliver superior food experiences, manage costs, and maintain safety and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive the culinary program and maintain food production standards throughout assigned YVR restaurant locations.
• Mentor, develop, and hold kitchen managers and culinary teams accountable for performance and execution.
• Recruit culinary talent, implement training programs, and develop succession plans to ensure strong leadership pipelines.
• Set and enforce consistent standards for food quality, presentation, recipe adherence, and kitchen operations.
• Collaborate with restaurant and operational leadership to identify gaps and implement sustainable improvements.
• Manage food costs, labor, purchasing, inventory, and other financial metrics to optimize profitability.
• Work alongside brand partners and culinary teams on menu creation and execution standards.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, workplace safety regulations, and airport security requirements.
• Foster a culture centered on accountability, open communication, and continuous process enhancement.
• Maintain a visible, hands-on presence in kitchen operations, especially during peak service times.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years progressive experience in culinary and food & beverage leadership roles, or equivalent education and experience.
• Culinary degree or comparable professional training and culinary experience.
• Proven track record in leading and mentoring kitchen managers and culinary leaders beyond frontline hourly teams.
• Extensive experience in full-service restaurants; managing multiple dining concepts is highly advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of food costing, labor management, inventory control, purchasing, budgeting, and profit and loss oversight.
• Capability to establish standards and instill accountability within leadership teams.
• Excellent communication, coaching, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to excel in a fast-paced, high-volume environment with multiple simultaneous priorities.
• Possession of food safety certification and ability to secure airport and security clearances.

Why Work With Us?

• Leadership Role: Assume a critical senior culinary leadership position within one of SSP Canada's key airport operations.
• Dynamic Setting: Oversee diverse restaurant brands in the bustling environment of Vancouver International Airport.
• Leadership Development: Strengthen management teams and create pathways for career progression.
• Career Advancement: Join a globally recognized food travel company with ample opportunities to grow operational leadership skills.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive salary with bonus, health and dental coverage, paid leave, RRSP with company match, and Employee Assistance Program.

Additional Information

Diversity and inclusion are core values at SSP. We are committed to providing equal opportunities and fostering an environment where every employee feels respected and motivated. We welcome applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds and identities.

This role operates in a secured airport context requiring a Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC). Candidates must be authorized to work in Canada and provide valid government-issued documents necessary for security clearance, compliant with Transport Canada regulations.