Executive Sous Chef

Now Hiring an Executive Chef!

Pay Based on experience.

Executive Chef – The Old Club
Location: 9900 South Channel Drive, Harsens Island, MI 48028
Employment: Seasonal, April to October
Reports To: General Manager/COO
Compensation: Competitive seasonal salary, off-season freedom, free housing

About The Old Club:
Founded in 1872, The Old Club is one of America’s oldest and most prestigious private yacht club. We are a seasonal retreat steeped in tradition, hospitality, and elegant leisure. Located on beautiful Harsens Island in Michigan, the club operates from early May through the end of September, offering à la carte dining, private events, weddings, and time-honored member traditions.

The Old Club is more than a summer escape; it's a way of life. And our next Executive Chef will be a vital steward of that legacy.

The Role:
We are seeking an Executive Chef to lead our seasonal culinary operation with excellence, professionalism, and a passion for mentorship. This is a six-month, high-impact role that offers a rare opportunity for an experienced chef to run a high-quality kitchen, and then enjoy the winter months off to travel, spend time with family, or pursue personal projects.

The Executive Chef is responsible for building their own culinary team each season. This includes interviewing, hiring, and training seasonal staff, including a mix of domestic employees, students, and international J1 team members. A passion for teaching, mentoring, and building culture is not optional, it’s essential.

Responsibilities Include:

• Lead and execute all culinary operations from scratch kitchen service to high-volume events.

• Hire, train, and develop a new culinary team each spring, ready to perform by early May.

• Create seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients and honor member favorites.

• Oversee food production, purchasing, inventory control, scheduling, budgeting, and sanitation standards.

• Work closely with the General Manager, Catering and Dining Operations Director and the food and beverage team to deliver a consistent, refined dining experience.

• Serve as a daily presence in the kitchen and dining areas, leading by example, coaching, and staying member engaged.

What We're Looking For:

• 5+ years of executive or sous chef experience in private clubs, resorts, or seasonal operations.

• Proven ability to build and lead a team from the ground up each season.

• Experience working with or mentoring J1 visa holders, culinary students, or young professionals.

• Strong leadership, communication, and hands-on training skills.

• Culinary degree preferred; ServSafe and food safety certification required.

• Ability to manage high standards and high expectations in a seasonal setting.

What We Offer:

• Seasonal employment (April–October) with full-time intensity and off-season lifestyle freedom.

• Highly competitive salary plus end-of-season bonus potential.

• In-season housing, meals and uniforms.

• Supportive, professional management and a member base that values excellence and consistency.

• A tradition-rich, picturesque setting to lead, inspire, and shine.

To Apply:
Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to:

wanglin@theoldclub.com
Subject line: Executive Chef – The Old Club

At The Old Club, we don’t just hire a chef we entrust a legacy. If you're ready to lead with integrity, inspire a team, and embrace a role that respects tradition and rewards balance, we want to hear from you.