Executive Chef Crystal Downs Club

FRANKFORT, MI

EXECUTIVE CHEF OPPORTUNITY AT CRYSTAL DOWNS COUNTRY CLUB

Crystal Downs Country Club is seeking a new Executive Chef ready to take the next meaningful step in their leadership journey. This role is well-suited for a chef who has built a strong foundation in quality, seasonality, and team leadership and is now prepared to step into a top position within a storied, tradition‑rich club environment. Set along the shores of Lake Michigan, the opportunity offers mentorship, collaboration with engaged club leadership, and the chance to lead a culinary program where consistency, simplicity, and member connection are valued.

Perched atop the breathtaking bluffs of Benzie County, Michigan, Crystal Downs Country Club offers an unparalleled experience where tradition meets timeless beauty. Since 1927, this private, member‑owned retreat has embraced families and friends, fostering a unique community spirit across generations. With its world‑renowned Alister Mac Kenzie‑designed 18‑hole links course, players are invited to test their skills against nature’s backdrop of rolling dunes, pristine fairways, and sweeping views of both Lake Michigan and Crystal Lake.

The English cottage‑style clubhouse, designed by Alexander McColl, complements the club’s natural surroundings, offering a perfect setting for social gatherings, relaxation, and panoramic lake views. The golf course and clubhouse are situated on a narrow strip of sandy, rolling land between the big lake and inland Crystal Lake, affording expansive views of both lakes, ever‑differing sunrises and sunsets, and fairly constant, invigorating winds.

More than just a golf destination, Crystal Downs is a family‑centric community that cherishes meaningful relationships and local involvement.

• Approximately 469 Members
• Membership Average Age – 66
• Total Gross Volume Approximately $5.5M
• Annual Food Revenue – $520k
• Annual Beverage Revenue – $207k
• Dining Ratio – a la Carte 58% – catering 42%
• Annual Dining Covers – 8,000
• POS System – Club Essential
• Food Cost – 35%
• Kitchen FTE – 20 | Club FTE – 143
• Average Labor Cost – 31%
• Kitchen Leadership – (Sous Chef, Golf Shop Grill Supervisor)
• 2 Kitchens (Main Clubhouse, Pro Shop)
• Average Weddings – 3 (member or sponsored)
• Club is open May – October
• Clubhouse is closed on Mondays

• Take full ownership of the culinary team; build trust with them by engaging, observing, learning, and listening.
• Earn members’ trust by instilling confidence through continued enhanced operations, interaction, and visibility.
• Create a fun, collaborative work environment while being “hands‑on” and engaged in the operations.
• Involve associates in the decision‑making process of how “work gets done” and create a work environment of mutual respect in which people want to come to and participate every day.
• Be a focused and consistent evaluator of personnel, ensuring that standards of conduct and delivery are met; this includes oversight of high standards of appearance, hospitality, service, and cleanliness of the kitchen facilities.
• Be an active and dynamic recruiter of team members and someone who inherently enjoys developing and building his/her team and leading them to significant, positive membership satisfaction outcomes.
• Establish and consistently enhance operating standards for personnel in areas of responsibility and consistently evaluate knowledge, understanding, and execution of these high standards.
• Work closely with the front‑of‑house food and beverage managers to ensure a cohesive experience that consistently exceeds the expectations of members and guests.
• Hold daily/weekly staff briefings and line‑ups with direct reports to keep them informed of necessary and relevant activities and expectations at the club. Assist in planning and be responsible for ensuring special club events are well‑conceived and executed.

• Oversee Clubhouse & Golf Shop Grill menu development that changes seasonally, ensuring a diverse and high‑quality menu that is responsive to the desires of the Clubhouse Manager and House Committee and reflects membership…