Job Description: Executive Kitchen Manager (EKM)

Position Classification: Full-Time / Exempt

Reports To: General Manager

Position Summary

The Executive Kitchen Manager (EKM) leads all culinary operations and Heart of House (HOH) team members, ensuring excellence in food quality, safety, and execution. This role requires strong leadership, operational discipline, and a passion for delivering scratch-made food with consistency and pride. The EKM upholds Walk-On’s standards, drives financial performance, and fosters a culture of teamwork, cleanliness, and fun in a high-volume kitchen environment.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Operations & Food Quality

• Ensure all menu items meet Walk-On’s quality, consistency, and presentation standards.
• Oversee all kitchen systems including prep, production, food safety, and sanitation.
• Maintain compliance with Walk-On’s, EcoSure, and local health department standards.
• Manage inventory, food ordering, and waste control to achieve targeted food costs.

Leadership & Team Development

• Recruit, train, and develop Heart of House (HOH) team members for success and growth.
• Provide coaching, feedback, and performance management in alignment with company policies.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented culture that promotes fun, respect, and accountability.
• Communicate effectively with the management team to ensure seamless service execution.

Business & Financial Performance

• Monitor and control food, labor, and supply costs to meet or exceed budgeted goals.
• Maintain accurate inventory levels and follow proper receiving procedures.
• Contribute to achieving overall restaurant sales and profit objectives.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of management experience in a full-service, high-volume kitchen.
• Proven success in culinary leadership and operational management.
• Strong communication, organization, and time-management skills.
• Culinary school background preferred but not required.
• Must be able to work 50–60 hours per week, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be able to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

The Walk-On’s Way

We’re a team that wins together. Our Executive Kitchen Managers lead with energy, precision, and heart — delivering scratch-made food and an unforgettable experience for every guest, every shift.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements or working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned.