Executive Chef - The Cape Club

The Cape Club at Kiawah Island Club is seeking a visionary Executive Chef to lead the culinary program of its Latin-inspired, oceanfront restaurant overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This is a rare opportunity to shape a distinctive dining experience within one of the country’s premier private clubs while collaborating with James Beard Award–winning chef and Club Culinary Advisor, Mike Lata. The restaurant will also offer food and beverage service poolside and by the beach, providing Members with the opportunity for al fresco daytime dining throughout the year. The menu reflects an elevated take on traditional Central and South American flavors and preparation with an emphasis on fresh, local seafood. 

Position Overview

The Executive Chef at The Cape Club will be responsible for executing a bold, refined culinary vision rooted in Latin flavors, seasonal ingredients, and coastal influences. This role combines creative leadership with operational excellence, delivering elevated, member-focused dining in a stunning seaside setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative, Latin-inspired menus that highlight fresh seafood, seasonal ingredients, and regional influences
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a talented culinary team with a culture of excellence and accountability
• Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, and flavor across all services
• Manage food and labor costs while maintaining premium standards
• Oversee purchasing, inventory, and vendor relationships with an emphasis on quality and sustainability
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation standards
• Partner with Club leadership on special events, tastings, and elevated member experiences
• Serve as a culinary ambassador for The Cape Club and Kiawah Island Club
• Have a positive, Go-First - can do attitude; a sense of humor; and lives by:
  • “The difficult will be provided for immediately; the impossible may take a few moments longer”.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of experience as an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef in a high-volume, luxury resort, private club, or large-scale dining operation
• Demonstrated success leading both à la carte and banquet/event culinary operations
• Strong background in Latin-inspired cuisine, global flavors, and seafood-driven menus
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to mentor, develop, and retain high-performing culinary teams
• Solid financial and operational acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and inventory management
• Active involvement in the ACF or other professional culinary associations
• Culinary arts degree from an accredited institution (preferred)
• Certified Executive Chef (ACF) or ProChef (CIA) certification (preferred)
• Current food safety certification (required)
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and collaboration skills

The position is eligible for full employee benefits and rich perks including: 

• Free gym membership 
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Health insurance rebates 
• Employer provided short and long term disability insurance
• A complimentary Costco membership
• Free staff meals, provided twice daily 
• 401(k) with match available
• Paid vacation and sick hours 
• Free and convenient parking

In person applications are welcome between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at 253 Gardeners Circle Suite 210, Kiawah Island, SC 29455. 

Candidates must be able to lift 50 lbs and be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

*Benefits are available to full-time employees after a waiting period and include: Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term and Long Term Disability, 401(k), Life Insurance, Accident Insurance, Telehealth, Health/ Dependent care spending account, wellness program and generous paid time off including 12 vacation days, 6 sick days and 9 paid holidays per year. KP is an Equal Opportunity Employer that uses EVerify. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, KP and its affiliates do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.