Position Title: Head Chef

Department: Hospitality - Food Services

Reports To: General Manager

Location: Skye Chase Estate Winery, St. Thomas Ontario

Compensation: Annual Salary $70,000 - $80,000 commensurate on experience; with possible performance based bonus

Job type: Permanent Full-time 40hrs/week

Benefits: Yes (following 90-day probation period)

Position Overview

We are seeking a visionary Head Chef to lead the culinary operations of Skye Chase Estate Winery. This position would be responsible for pairing exquisite food with our exceptional wines and contributing directly to delivering a best-in-class customer experience. Our winery, regarded as a ‘must experience’ destination, requires the Head Chef deliver excellence consistently in support of the ‘comfortably elegant’ Skye Chase brand.

Skye Chase Estate Winery boasts a gorgeous 21-acre vineyard, a beautiful retail store, tasting area, full-service restaurant, and lounge. The recent Welcome Centre elevates and complements our natural environment and serves as the cornerstone of the estate. This inviting space encourages customers to enjoy the unique charms of our vineyard, our heritage forest, the overall ambiance and breathtaking views of the estate.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership

- Prepare and cook food on a regular basis, including for special guests or functions.
- Develop, execute, and oversee all menus, with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced, and shareable dishes.
- Train and lead the culinary team to deliver exceptional dining experiences.
- Maintain consistency in food quality, presentation, and innovation.

Operational Management

- Oversee all kitchen operations, including inventory, purchasing and cost control.
- Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations with commitment to consistent top level cleanliness.
- Manage kitchen hiring, schedules, staff training, and performance evaluations to build a strong/motivated team.





Collaboration & Strategy

- Collaborate with the Head Winemaker, Hospitality Manager and General Manager to align an ongoing culinary vision with the brand identity, while being creative and expressive.
- Collaborate with the Head Winemaker to develop pairings that complement and leverage the very best we have to offer in a wine and food pairing experience.
- Partner with our retail and on-site events team to create menus for seasonal periods, private parties and celebrations.

Guest Experience

- Engage with guests to gather feedback and adapt offerings to meet and exceed expectations.
- Create memorable culinary moments that enhance the overall guest experience, ensuring every dish tells a story.

Sustainability & Community

- Build strong relationships with local farmers, other wineries and craft beer/distillery operators, and artisans to champion fresh, sustainable ingredients.

Qualifications:

- Proven experience as a Chef or Head Chef in a refined dining restaurant, or similar heightened experience setting, with all provincially required certifications.
- Education: College/CEGEP
- A creative and innovative approach to menu design and food presentation, with a passion for local and seasonal cuisine.
- Strong leadership and team management skills to inspire and develop a talented culinary team.
- Knowledge of culinary trends and food cost management including cost effective food purchasing.
- Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences.
- Ability to manage budgets, control costs, and meet financial goals.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Minimum 3 years’ experience preferred

Are you Ready to Join a Dynamic, Fun and Dedicated Team!

Send your resume, portfolio, and examples of past work to [email protected] by October 9, 2026. Be part of the Skye Chase story—where the past meets possibility, and every day brings something extraordinary!

Pay: $70,000.00-$80,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

📌 Head Chef/Kitchen Manager (St. Thomas)
🏢 Skye Chase Estate Winery
📍 St. Thomas