Azhadi Vineyards is a new destination winery under construction scheduled to open Fall 2025 in Kelowna, BC. Azhadi Group is a privately held group of companies which develops and operates a selection of wineries and vineyards throughout the Okanagan Valley region, including the established Ex Nihilo Vineyards operating in Lake Country, BC.

We strive to provide best in class, beautiful experiences to our people and our guests. Gratitude is at our core; whether it be the land, the opportunity, or the people who we work with and visit us. We are building an environment where people come together, feel valued and will grow in their respective career paths.

We seek to provide meaningful work and create meaningful relationships. We respect people; we communicate openly; we are team players; we are accountable; and we are trustworthy.

Position Summary

Azhadi Group is seeking a visionary, globally inspired Group Executive Chef to lead the culinary programs at both Azhadi Vineyards and Ex Nihilo Vineyards. This is a rare opportunity to help shape the identity of a new, landmark winery restaurant, while also guiding and mentoring an established culinary team at Ex Nihilo.

More than a kitchen leader, the ideal candidate is a cultural collaborator, a creative leader, and a team builder. You are someone who understands how global cuisine where East meets West can create connection, evoke emotion, and elevate a wine focused experience. You value partnership and mutual respect and see your role as part of a greater whole working in lockstep with the operations, hospitality, vineyard, and marketing teams to create something truly exceptional.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Vision & Execution

Define and execute a culinary identity for Azhadi Vineyards rooted in global influences and thoughtful wine pairings.
Create menus that reflect seasonality, regional sourcing, and cross-cultural storytelling on the plate.
Maintain a strong, hands-on presence in both kitchens, upholding consistency, innovation, and excellence.
Collaborate with the winemaking and hospitality teams to craft integrated guest experiences.

Leadership & Culture

Hire, lead, and mentor kitchen teams across both properties, fostering a culture of mutual respect, discipline, and creativity.
Model clear communication, humility, and a team-first mindset in all interactions.
Champion a collaborative spirit with all departments not just within culinary, but across the business.
Serve as a unifying presence across Azhadi and Ex Nihilo, ensuring team alignment with brand values and goals.

Business & Strategic Contribution

Work closely with the Director of Operations and broader leadership team to align culinary programs with company objectives.
Contribute to budgeting, cost controls, forecasting, and strategic planning across both properties.
Manage vendor relationships and sourcing partnerships, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation.
Oversee inventory, labor, food costing, and equipment maintenance.

Guest Experience & Brand Representation

Represent the culinary program in media, partnerships, events, and community interactions.
Participate in cross-functional planning for wine club dinners, tastings, weddings, and signature events.
Bring a hospitality-forward mindset to every touchpoint creating food experiences that match the emotional depth and refinement of the brands.

Qualifications

Minimum 5 years of experience as an Executive Chef in a fine dining or wine-focused setting; multi-site or launch experience preferred.
Deep appreciation for global cuisines, and how they intersect with local terroir and wine.
WSET Level 2 or strong wine knowledge required.
Culinary diploma or equivalent; BC Food Safe Certification required.
Proven strength in team leadership, training, and performance development.
Strong financial and operational acumen.
Comfortable working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders across departments.
Adaptable, humble, and emotionally intelligent.
Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and key seasonal dates.
Must have reliable transportation and be legally eligible to work in Canada.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00-$95,000.00 per year

Benefits:
Company events
Dental care
Extended health care
Life insurance
Paid time off
Store discount
Vision care

Experience:
leadership in fine dining: 5 years (required)

Licence/Certification:
Food safe (required)
WSET Level 2 or strong wine knowledge (required)

Work Location: In person