Event Chef

Location: Owamni & NATIFS– Minneapolis, MN
Department: Culinary
Reports To: Culinary Director
Status: Full-Time, Exempt

The Catering & Events Executive Chef at Owamni leads all culinary operations connected to private events, off-site catering, institutional partnerships, VIP experiences, and specialty programming rooted in decolonized Indigenous foodways. This role plays a key part in advancing Owamni's mission to revitalize Indigenous cuisine by delivering exceptional, culturally grounded culinary experiences that honor ingredients, stories, and traditions.

The ideal candidate is a highly skilled chef with deep respect for Indigenous food knowledge, a passion for education, and the leadership ability to guide teams while upholding Owamni's high standards of flavor, presentation, hospitality, sustainability, and cultural responsibility.

• Lead all culinary planning, prep, production, and execution for Owamni's in-house events, institutional catering, VIP dinners, and off-site special events.
• Develop seasonal and event-specific menus that highlight Indigenous ingredients, regional sourcing, and the restaurant's decolonized culinary philosophy.
• Maintain exceptional execution, flavor accuracy, and visual presentation that reflect Owamni's fine-dining standards.
• Ensure strict consistency in recipes, portioning, cooking techniques, and plating.

• Collaborate with the Events Manager, culinary leadership, and community partners to deliver thoughtful, culturally respectful experiences.
• Attend client meetings, tastings, walkthroughs, and event planning sessions to align vision and logistics.
• Provide on-site leadership during events to ensure smooth service and elevated guest experience.
• Uphold Owamni's values of cultural respect, sustainability, and education in all menu decisions and interactions.

• Train, supervise, and support culinary staff assigned to event and catering production.
• Build a strong event culinary team with a focus on mentorship, professional development, and Indigenous culinary education.
• Foster a positive, respectful, and growth-oriented kitchen culture.

• Oversee food costing, procurement, prep timelines, labor planning, inventory, and waste reduction for all events.
• Coordinate closely with the BOH leadership and purchasing team to maintain accurate communication and operational alignment.
• Ensure all catering and prep areas follow strict food safety, sanitation, and organizational standards.

• Create new culinary concepts, tasting menus, and event offerings that highlight Indigenous ingredients and techniques.
• Represent Owamni during high-profile events, collaborations, and community engagements when needed.
• Engage with Indigenous growers, harvesters, and suppliers to support regional food networks and sustainable sourcing.

• 5+ years of culinary leadership experience, including at least 2 years in a high-end restaurant, luxury catering, or fine-dining environment.
• Demonstrated experience with large-scale catering, private events, or institutional food programs.
• Strong understanding—or willingness to learn deeply—about Indigenous foodways, ingredients, sourcing methods, and culinary philosophy.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Experience with costing, ordering, labor management, and BOH financial operations.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, work extended hours, and travel for off-site events as required.
• Culinary degree preferred but not required; equivalent professional experience accepted.

• Cultural Integrity – Honors Indigenous food traditions, sourcing ethics, and storytelling in all menu development.
• Leadership & Mentorship – Inspires and guides teams with clarity, empathy, and high expectations.
• Creative Excellence – Designs memorable dishes that elevate Indigenous ingredients and techniques.
• Operational Precision – Efficiently manages systems, timelines, and logistics across multiple simultaneous events.
• Guest-Centered Mindset – Provides a welcoming, meaningful experience that aligns with Owamni's hospitality values.
• Adaptability – Handles dynamic environments, changing event needs, and real-time challenges with calm professionalism.