Also referred to as the chef manager or head chef, the executive chef is the leader in charge of everything that goes out of the kitchen and maintains full control of the kitchen staff at all times. From small restaurant operations staffed by a handful of cooks to massive industrial kitchens staffed by a large number of chefs and culinary assistants, executive chefs are given the responsibility of resolving any problems efficiently to serve exceptional cuisine. Entering a career in the culinary industry can be an emotionally and financially lucrative option for aspiring executive chefs seeking to exercise their love for creative cooking in a leadership role. In order to determine if this is the right career path for you, read on to find a full overview of what executive chefs do inside and outside of the kitchen.