About KS on the Keys
KS on the Keys is a busy restaurant and event centre in Ottawa. We run a diverse menu covering Asian, Italian, Canadian, and more, and our schedule is packed with large private parties, corporate functions, VIP catering, regular in-house dining, and takeout. It's a fast-paced operation and we're proud of that. We need a chef who is too.
The role
We're hiring an Executive Chef to take full ownership of the kitchen. That means the cooking, the team, the standards, the scheduling, and the costs. You'll have genuine input on the menu and the freedom to shape how the kitchen runs.
Our kitchen team is experienced and we want to keep it that way. We're looking for someone who leads by showing up, working hard, and earning respect. If your style is to walk in and take over loudly, this isn't the right fit. If your style is to integrate, elevate the people around you, and build something solid, keep reading.
What you'll be responsible for
- Running kitchen operations across dining, takeout, catering, and a high volume of large-format events
- Developing and executing a diverse menu with room to evolve it over time
- Managing and developing a kitchen team of around 10 people
- Scheduling, staffing, and day-to-day performance management
- Food costing, inventory, and supplier relationships
- Keeping food safety, cleanliness, and kitchen standards consistently high
- Training staff hands-on and building a team that doesn't need constant supervision
- Working closely with front-of-house and event staff to make every service run smoothly
What we're looking for
- At least 5 years in a Head Chef or Executive Chef role, or equivalent senior kitchen experience
- Real experience with high-volume service and large event or catering operations
- Comfortable cooking across multiple cuisines and adapting to a varied menu
- A track record of building and keeping a good kitchen team together
- Solid understanding of food costing, inventory control, and kitchen financials
- Valid Food Handler Certification; Red Seal is a strong asset
- ServSafe or equivalent food safety certification is preferred
- Someone who communicates well, works well with others, and doesn't need drama to get results
What we offer
- $70,000 to $95,000 per year based on experience
- Extended health, dental, and vision care
- On-site parking
- Genuine input on menu direction
- A full-time permanent position at a stable, growing operation
Requirements
- Must be legally eligible to work in Canada
- Must be available to work on-site in Ottawa
- English required
To apply, send us your resume along with a brief description of a kitchen challenge you've dealt with and how you handled it. Applications without this may not be reviewed. You're also welcome to drop your resume off in person and introduce yourself to management.
Pay: $70,000.00-$95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Application question(s):
- Briefly describe a kitchen you've managed and the size of the team
Experience:
- Chef: 5 years (required)
- large-scale event or catering : 3 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- valid Food Handler Certification (required)
Work Location: In person
