How to Create a 5-Day Executive Chef Onboarding Training Plan

Date modified: 21st July 2025 | This article has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email.

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Day 1: Operational Overview and Team Introduction

The first day focuses on giving your new executive chef a comprehensive understanding of your operation's scope, culture, and expectations while establishing key relationships.

This foundation day ensures your executive chef understands both the big picture and critical details needed to lead your culinary team effectively.

Operational Overview and Business Context

Why it's essential: Executive chefs must understand the complete business context to make sound culinary decisions. Without this understanding, even exceptional culinary skills won't translate to business success.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Facility TourComprehensive walkthrough of all kitchen areas, storage facilities, and dining spacesHighlight infrastructure strengths and challenges
Business Model OverviewPresent P&L statements, customer demographics, and business goalsExplain how culinary operations impact overall business metrics
Service Style and VolumeReview covers data, peak periods, and service expectationsDiscuss how these factors influence kitchen design and staffing
Current Performance ReviewShare recent performance metrics, guest feedback, and identified areas for improvementBe transparent about challenges and opportunities

Key Stakeholder Introductions

Building relationships with all departments is crucial for executive chef success.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Kitchen Brigade IntroductionFormal introduction to all kitchen team members with 1:1 time with sous chefsNote team dynamics and key personnel relationships
FOH Management MeetingIntroduce to service managers, discuss service flow and expectationsEstablish communication protocols between kitchen and service teams
Supplier RelationshipsReview current supplier list, introduce to key account managersDiscuss ordering schedules and quality control processes
Executive Team IntegrationMeeting with GM, Finance Director, and other department headsClarify reporting relationships and collaborative expectations

Understanding Culinary Vision and Brand Alignment

Establish clear expectations for how the culinary program aligns with your brand identity.

Training focus:

  • Review of brand standards and how they translate to culinary offerings
  • Discussion of target customer expectations and preferences
  • Analysis of competitive landscape and market positioning
  • Clarification of creative freedom and brand constraints

Administrative Systems Introduction

Provide overview of critical management systems that support culinary operations.

Key systems to cover:

  • Inventory management and ordering platforms
  • Labour scheduling and management tools
  • Recipe management and costing systems
  • Quality control and HACCP documentation

Day 1 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they articulate the restaurant's business model and target market?
  • Do they understand current financial performance and challenges?
  • Have they begun building rapport with key team members?
  • Do they demonstrate understanding of brand standards and expectations?

Day 1 Success Indicators:

  • Asks insightful questions about business performance
  • Shows interest in team members' perspectives and experiences
  • Begins identifying potential areas for improvement
  • Demonstrates alignment with company culture and values

Day 2: Menu Development and Food Cost Management

Day two focuses on establishing control over menu development processes and cost management systems – the financial backbone of culinary operations.

This day ensures your executive chef understands how to balance culinary creativity with financial responsibility.

Menu Analysis and Development Strategy

Why it's essential: The menu is both a creative expression and a financial document. Executive chefs must master the balance between these perspectives.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Current Menu ReviewAnalyse each dish for popularity, profitability, and production complexityIdentify underperforming items and menu gaps
Menu Engineering WorkshopReview menu mix reports and introduce menu engineering principlesDemonstrate how to categorise menu items by profitability and popularity
Seasonality PlanningReview seasonal ingredient availability and menu rotation strategyDiscuss lead times for menu changes and marketing coordination
Signature Dish DevelopmentDiscuss expectations for signature items and brand differentiationClarify approval processes for new menu items

Food Cost Management Systems

Establish rigorous cost control expectations and systems.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Cost Percentage TargetsReview current and target food cost percentagesBreak down by menu category and meal period
Recipe Costing SystemDemonstrate recipe costing tools and standard recipe formatsEnsure understanding of portion control standards
Yield Testing ProtocolsReview procedures for conducting and documenting yield testsEmphasise importance of regular yield verification
Inventory ManagementCover inventory procedures, valuation methods, and variance trackingDiscuss inventory turnover expectations

Purchasing and Supplier Management

Establish expectations for supplier relationships and purchasing protocols.

Training focus:

  • Review of approved supplier list and quality expectations
  • Discussion of ordering schedules and emergency ordering procedures
  • Introduction to price comparison and negotiation strategies
  • Explanation of product specification standards

Waste Management and Sustainability Practices

Connect cost control to waste reduction and sustainability initiatives.

Key elements:

  • Current waste tracking methods and reduction targets
  • Repurposing strategies for trim and excess production
  • Sustainability initiatives and their operational impact
  • Cost-benefit analysis of sustainability practices

Day 2 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they analyse menu profitability and suggest improvements?
  • Do they understand food cost targets and variance management?
  • Are they comfortable with recipe costing and yield management?
  • Do they demonstrate commitment to waste reduction and cost control?

Day 2 Success Indicators:

  • Identifies specific opportunities to improve menu profitability
  • Shows attention to detail in recipe costing and specification
  • Asks thoughtful questions about cost control systems
  • Begins formulating ideas for menu improvements

Day 3: Team Leadership and Kitchen Management

Day three focuses on developing leadership capabilities and management systems to effectively direct the culinary team.

This day ensures your executive chef can translate culinary vision into consistent execution through effective team leadership.

Team Assessment and Development

Why it's essential: The executive chef's success depends on their ability to develop and lead a high-performing team.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Team Skills AssessmentReview current team capabilities, training needs, and development opportunitiesIdentify skill gaps and cross-training possibilities
Performance Management SystemExplain performance review processes, documentation requirements, and development planningProvide examples of effective performance documentation
Training Program ReviewOutline existing training materials, certification requirements, and skill development pathsDiscuss expectations for ongoing team development
Succession PlanningDiscuss current talent pipeline and development needs for key positionsBegin identifying high-potential team members

Labour Management and Scheduling

Establish expectations for effective labour utilisation and management.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Labour Budget ReviewExplain labour cost targets, productivity metrics, and variance managementBreak down by department and daypart
Scheduling SystemDemonstrate scheduling tools, forecasting methods, and approval processesDiscuss strategies for managing seasonal fluctuations
Productivity StandardsReview expected productivity metrics and measurement methodsProvide historical data on productivity performance
Overtime ManagementDiscuss overtime approval processes and minimisation strategiesReview recent overtime trends and causes

Kitchen Communication and Meeting Structure

Establish expectations for team communication and information flow.

Training focus:

  • Pre-shift briefing content and format expectations
  • Kitchen meeting schedule and agenda management
  • Documentation standards for team communication
  • Feedback mechanisms and conflict resolution protocols

Standard Operating Procedures and Recipe Management

Ensure understanding of documentation requirements and operational standards.

Key elements:

  • SOP development and maintenance responsibilities
  • Recipe standardisation and testing protocols
  • Training documentation requirements
  • Quality assurance and consistency management

Day 3 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they identify team development needs and opportunities?
  • Do they understand labour management expectations and tools?
  • Are they comfortable with communication and meeting protocols?
  • Do they demonstrate commitment to documentation and standardisation?

Day 3 Success Indicators:

  • Begins building rapport with team members at all levels
  • Shows understanding of labour management principles
  • Demonstrates effective communication with diverse team members
  • Takes initiative in reviewing and suggesting improvements to SOPs

Day 4: Quality Control and Culinary Standards

Day four focuses on establishing and maintaining quality standards across all culinary operations.

This day ensures your executive chef can implement systems that deliver consistent excellence regardless of who is working or how busy the operation becomes.

Quality Standards and Specification Development

Why it's essential: Consistent quality is the foundation of guest satisfaction and brand reputation.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Product SpecificationsReview existing specifications and quality benchmarks for key ingredientsDiscuss modification processes and approval requirements
Presentation StandardsExamine plating guides, photo documentation, and garnish standardsClarify expectations for presentation consistency
Tasting ProtocolsDemonstrate systematic tasting procedures for quality verificationEstablish daily tasting routines and documentation
Quality MeasurementReview quality scoring systems and guest feedback mechanismsDiscuss trending and response protocols for quality issues

Food Safety and Compliance Management

Establish expectations for maintaining rigorous safety standards.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
HACCP System ReviewWalk through critical control points, documentation requirements, and verification proceduresEmphasise executive chef accountability for system integrity
Health Inspection PreparednessReview recent inspection reports and ongoing compliance requirementsDiscuss corrective action protocols and documentation
Allergen ManagementExplain allergen control systems, cross-contact prevention, and communication protocolsReview allergen documentation and staff training requirements
Crisis ManagementOutline procedures for foodborne illness allegations and product recall managementClarify communication chain and documentation expectations

Consistency Management Across Service Periods

Ensure quality consistency regardless of service period or personnel.

Training focus:

  • Systems for maintaining standards across different shifts
  • Handover protocols between service periods
  • Documentation requirements for shift-to-shift communication
  • Quality verification procedures for different meal periods

Innovation and Menu Development Processes

Establish expectations for balancing innovation with operational realities.

Key elements:

  • R&D time allocation and resource availability
  • Testing and approval processes for new items
  • Costing and operational feasibility assessment
  • Implementation and training requirements for menu changes

Day 4 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they articulate quality standards and verification methods?
  • Do they understand food safety compliance requirements?
  • Are they comfortable with consistency management systems?
  • Do they demonstrate commitment to balancing innovation with consistency?

Day 4 Success Indicators:

  • Identifies specific opportunities to improve quality systems
  • Shows attention to detail in quality verification
  • Asks thoughtful questions about compliance requirements
  • Begins formulating ideas for quality improvement initiatives

Day 5: Business Integration and Strategic Planning

Day five focuses on connecting culinary operations to overall business objectives and developing strategic action plans.

This day ensures your executive chef can translate business goals into effective culinary strategies and measurable outcomes.

Financial Performance and Budgeting

Why it's essential: Executive chefs must understand how their decisions impact overall business performance.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Budget ReviewExamine current budget, variance reports, and forecasting methodsDiscuss executive chef's role in budget development and management
Profit Improvement PlanningIdentify key profit levers and potential improvement strategiesDevelop preliminary action plans for addressing profit challenges
Capital Expenditure ProcessExplain capex request procedures, ROI calculations, and approval processesDiscuss upcoming equipment needs and replacement planning
Financial ReportingReview executive chef financial reporting requirements and deadlinesEstablish expectations for financial analysis and commentary

Marketing and Guest Experience Integration

Connect culinary operations to marketing initiatives and guest experience management.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Marketing Calendar ReviewExamine upcoming promotions, events, and marketing initiativesDiscuss culinary support requirements and lead times
Social Media StrategyReview social media presence, content expectations, and chef involvementClarify content creation responsibilities and approval processes
Guest Feedback ManagementAnalyse guest feedback systems, response protocols, and trend analysisEstablish expectations for chef engagement with guest feedback
Special Events StrategyDiscuss approach to special events, custom menus, and resource allocationReview profitability expectations and operational constraints

Strategic Planning and Goal Setting

Establish expectations for long-term planning and goal achievement.

Training focus:

  • Annual planning process and executive chef's role
  • Key performance indicators and measurement methods
  • Action planning and implementation frameworks
  • Accountability systems and progress reporting

Performance Expectations and Ongoing Development

Clarify performance expectations and professional development opportunities.

Key elements:

  • Performance evaluation criteria and schedule
  • Professional development resources and support
  • Networking and industry engagement expectations
  • Mentoring and coaching availability

90-Day Action Planning

Facilitate development of initial priorities and action plans.

Key components:

  • Immediate priorities (first 30 days)
  • Medium-term initiatives (31-60 days)
  • Strategic projects (61-90 days)
  • Resource requirements and support needs

Day 5 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they connect culinary decisions to financial outcomes?
  • Do they understand marketing integration requirements?
  • Are they comfortable with strategic planning processes?
  • Have they developed meaningful initial action plans?

Day 5 Success Indicators:

  • Demonstrates understanding of financial management expectations
  • Shows strategic thinking in approach to culinary operations
  • Develops realistic and impactful 90-day plan
  • Exhibits ownership of performance expectations

Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves in Executive Chef Onboarding

Must-Haves:

  • Financial Understanding: Thorough coverage of P&L responsibility, food cost management, and budget adherence
  • Team Leadership Training: Clear expectations for staff management, development, and performance standards
  • Quality Control Systems: Comprehensive understanding of quality standards and verification methods
  • Menu Management: Complete training on menu engineering, costing, and development processes
  • Compliance Knowledge: Detailed coverage of food safety requirements and documentation standards
  • Stakeholder Relationships: Structured introductions to all key internal and external stakeholders
  • Performance Expectations: Crystal-clear articulation of performance metrics and evaluation criteria
  • Action Planning: Facilitated development of initial priorities and implementation timelines

Nice-to-Haves:

  • Industry Benchmarking: Providing competitive analysis and industry performance comparisons
  • Executive Mentoring: Pairing with experienced culinary leader for ongoing guidance
  • Professional Development Budget: Allocated resources for continued education and skill development
  • Technology Training: Advanced training on specialised culinary management software
  • Media Training: Preparation for public-facing responsibilities and media interactions
  • Competitive Research Visits: Arranged visits to competitive establishments for market awareness
  • Leadership Assessment: Formal assessment of leadership style and development opportunities
  • Supplier Relationship Building: Facilitated meetings with key suppliers beyond basic introductions

Remember that effective executive chef onboarding requires significant investment in both time and resources, but pays dividends through reduced turnover, faster performance impact, and stronger team alignment. Prioritise thorough coverage of the must-haves before expanding to nice-to-have elements.

This structured five-day plan provides a comprehensive foundation, but should be supplemented with ongoing check-ins and support through the critical first 90 days of employment.