Culinary Director/Food Service Director (FSD)

Job Description

Job DescriptionCULINARY DIRECTOR / FOOD SERVICE DIRECTORConfidential Senior Living Leadership Opportunity – Southern New Hampshire / Manchester Area

A premier senior living community in the Southern New Hampshire / Manchester area is seeking an experienced and motivated Culinary Director / Food Service Director to lead its dining services team. This is an outstanding opportunity for a culinary professional with strong leadership skills who is passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences while ensuring operational excellence, resident satisfaction, and regulatory compliance.

The Culinary Director / Food Service Director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the dining services department, including menu planning, food preparation, team leadership, budgeting, resident satisfaction, and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities Include:

• Direct and oversee all daily operations of the Dining Services Department

• Lead, coach, mentor, and develop culinary and dietary team members

• Plan nutritious, creative, and appealing menus that meet therapeutic diet requirements and resident preferences

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, local, and sanitation regulations

• Manage food ordering, inventory, purchasing, and departmental budgets

• Monitor food quality, presentation, and overall resident dining satisfaction

• Maintain infection control, food safety, and kitchen sanitation standards

• Collaborate with nursing, administration, and interdisciplinary team members to meet residents' nutritional needs

• Ensure survey readiness and compliance with healthcare and senior living regulations

• Foster a culture of hospitality, teamwork, and exceptional customer service

Qualifications:

• Previous Culinary Director, Food Service Director, Executive Chef, or Dietary Manager experience, preferably in a senior living, healthcare, or long-term care setting

• Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) certification preferred or ability to obtain if required

• Strong knowledge of therapeutic diets, food safety, and sanitation regulations

• Proven leadership, organizational, and communication skills

• Experience managing budgets, inventory, staffing, and departmental operations

• Passion for providing outstanding hospitality and resident-centered dining experiences

Benefits Include:

• Competitive salary

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Paid holidays

• 401(k)

If you're an experienced culinary leader looking to make a meaningful impact in a senior living community, we'd love to hear from you.

Confidential inquiries are welcomed and will be handled with the utmost discretion.

All offers of employment are subject to required background and registry screenings in accordance with state and federal regulations.