Sous Chef Event Center - Asian Concept

Ocala, FL

The World Equestrian Center is seeking a talented and experienced Sous Chef to join our team for a pan-Asian concept restaurant. As a key leadership position within our Food & Beverage Division, the Sous Chef will play a vital role in overseeing the restaurant’s culinary operations in collaboration with the Chef de Cuisine. This role involves making key operational decisions, ensuring food quality, consistency, and presentation, while fostering a high-performance culinary team.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Performance: Ensure attention to detail, speed, and accuracy while managing kitchen operations. Resolve issues efficiently and ensure guest service needs are met, especially under pressure.
  • Leadership: Hire, train, evaluate, and motivate the culinary team. Uphold cultural and core standards, and oversee daily operations to maintain team morale and productivity.
  • Menu Development: Work with the Chef de Cuisine to plan and execute seasonal menus, ensuring food quality, preparation, and presentation meet the highest standards.
  • Financial Oversight: Manage labor costs, control operating expenses, and optimize inventory through effective scheduling, budgeting, and purchasing.
  • Sanitation & Safety: Ensure compliance with sanitation and safety standards set by the World Equestrian Center, local, state, and federal regulations, and maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment.
  • Quality Control: Monitor food shipments, ensure proper compliance with specifications, and focus on maintaining consistent food quality throughout all stages of preparation.
  • Communication: Facilitate smooth communication within the kitchen team and with management to ensure seamless operations.
  • Guest Feedback: Address guest concerns regarding food quality and service, implementing corrective actions as necessary.
  • Event Planning: Coordinate and execute special events and private dining experiences that enhance guest experiences and generate additional revenue.
  • Inventory Management: Oversee inventory management and ordering to maintain stock levels, reduce waste, and control costs.
  • VIP Service: Ensure exceptional dining experiences for high-profile guests, surpassing their expectations.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential.
  • Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a culinary leadership role with expertise in Asian cuisine.
  • Culinary Expertise: Extensive knowledge of kitchen operations, equipment, and food preparation techniques.
  • Attention to Detail: Exceptional organizational and time-management skills.
  • Research & Development: Passion for innovation and enhancing culinary experiences.
  • Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop culinary teams.
  • Labor Relations: Knowledge of labor laws regarding employment, safety, wages, and labor relations.
  • Certifications: Must have ServSafe and Alcohol Compliance Certifications.

Physical Requirements:

  • Standing/Walking: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and perform physical tasks such as kneeling, crouching, and climbing.
  • Lifting: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
  • Vision & Hearing: Good vision for close-up work and strong hearing ability for communication.
  • Endurance: Ability to work standing for extended periods (8+ hours).

The World Equestrian Center is managed by Columbus Hospitality Management, a company committed to providing quality service and memorable guest experiences in a positive and welcoming work environment. We are focused on supporting the needs of our team through our commitment to the family/work-life balance and by providing development opportunities. 

We are proud to be a Drug-Free Workplace/EOE. All applicants will be required to submit a background check prior to employment.