How to Become an Executive Chef

An executive chef is king in the kitchen.

As an executive chef, you will be in control. Not only will you plan and develop the menu, you will hire assistant chefs and cooks and you will be responsible for health safety in the kitchen, cost control, recipe adherence and the training of the staff. If that sounds like the job of your dreams, find out how to become an executive chef.

Instructions

1. Obtain your certification in safe food handling. One of the most important jobs of an executive chef is to ensure the safety of the food served. Restaurant management wants to know that you can provide a high level of food safety. Just one case of a customer becoming ill from the food can cost the restaurant thousands of dollars and many lost customers.

2. Develop your professional cooking skills. Usually, this means working in the food service industry for many years. However, attending a respected culinary will move you to the head of the line.

3. Get experience in management. An executive chef must demonstrate the skill to manage the menu, costs and the staff. Work on your leadership skills.

4. Stay in shape. An executive chef spends approximately 90 percent of his work time on his feet. Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight to prevent problems. Although, it isn't a written rule, restaurant owners often consider a prospective chef’s overall health when hiring.

5. Build a quality resume that details your career rise in the food industry. Each successive job should illustrate more responsibility than the previous one. If you have any negative job experiences, leave them off your resume unless they are imperative to your success. If so, be prepared to explain your side of a derogatory situation without appearing to be a complainer.

6. Dress to impress during your interview. Chefs aren’t supposed to be fashion plates but you must show the interviewer that you are neat, clean and that you take pride in your appearance.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish