Hire a Private Chef
Begin SearchWe’ve built a nationwide network of private chefs, with a focus on candidates who have a minimum of 3–5 years of experience working in high-profile private households. Our recruitment process includes thorough background and reference checks. Many of the chefs in our network have trained in Michelin-starred kitchens and other highly regarded fine-dining restaurants before transitioning into private service.
We take a thoughtful, hands-on approach to every placement. We curate and present a select group of candidates whose experience aligns with your household’s preferences, lifestyle, and expectations, helping make the search more efficient and supporting a successful long-term placement.
When assessing candidates, we consider their experience in private homes, professionalism, ability to read the room, and communication with principals and estate staff. We also look for adaptability, responsiveness to feedback, and the ability to maintain consistent, high-level service as the household’s needs change.
Whether you’re looking for a full-time, part-time, or short-term private chef, we tailor our search to your household’s needs.
Permanent private chef placements.
We place chefs in permanent full-time and part-time positions. Some roles center on family meals and dietary preferences. Others include formal entertaining, regular travel, or service across several residences.
We’ve worked in the private service environments we recruit for. That experience informs how we assess the scope of a position, the expectations of the household, and the chef’s ability to work within it. Where the role is still taking shape, we can offer guidance.
Discuss a permanent placementTemporary & contract private chefs.
For a seasonal stay or upcoming travel, we can tailor the search to your plans. That might mean a summer in the Hamptons, a stay in Malibu, or time spent between residences.
Your culinary preferences, the household’s routine, and any entertaining planned during that time guide our selection. We look for chefs who can adapt comfortably to the setting and the standards of service expected.
Discuss your plansMeal preparation & private events.
From personalized meal preparation and in-home dining to special occasions and private events, we help you find an experienced chef. We work with clients to identify chefs whose experience and availability align with their preferences, dietary needs, household, and schedule.
Meal preparation can be part of a permanent full-time or part-time position, with cooking typically done on-site. For special events and gatherings, we place temporary chefs for menu development, sourcing, preparation, and execution.
Finding the Right Candidate
Consultation
We learn about the household, its preferences, and the requirements of the position.
Shortlist
We introduce a select group of chefs whose private service experience and working style suit the role.
Interviews
Interviews allow for a closer discussion of the position and each candidate’s approach.
Trial Period(For permanent and long-term placements)
We coordinate the trial around the position and the household’s arrangements.
Placement
Once a chef is selected, we finalize the placement and support the transition into the role.
Trial Period(For permanent and long-term placements)
A trial gives a chef the opportunity to demonstrate their culinary skills, presentation, and service in the household. It also provides time to consider how their personality, professionalism, and working style fit within the home.
- 01 Food quality and presentation
- 02 Service and attention to detail
- 03 Personality, professionalism, and household fit
Questions about
hiring a private chef.
What types of placements do you offer?
We place chefs in permanent full-time and part-time positions, as well as temporary and contract roles. We also represent chefs for travel and special-event roles.
Can a position include travel between residences?
Yes. We place chefs in roles that include travel. The search takes account of the household’s locations, schedule, and travel requirements.
How are chefs selected for a household?
We are selective about the chefs we represent. We typically require a minimum of 3–5 years of experience working in private households. We review employment history, references, and culinary background, then consider communication, discretion, and how the chef’s working style fits the household and the position.
Is a working trial part of the placement process?
A working trial can be arranged before a placement is confirmed. Timing and scope are agreed with the household and the chef, with guidance from IVY where needed.
Can you match a chef to particular cuisines or dietary requirements?
Yes. When a household has specific cuisine preferences or dietary requirements, we match those needs with the chef’s culinary strengths and relevant experience. These are considered alongside the schedule, style of service, and wider requirements of the position.
Can you advise on the scope of a position?
Yes. Some searches begin with an established role; others require more discussion about the schedule, responsibilities, or level of experience. We can provide guidance based on the household and the kind of service required.
Client inquiries
For private chef placements, please contact our team by phone or leave a few details below.
(424) 330-9762info@ivychefagency.comFor private chef opportunities, visit Join the Team.