We are releasing A New Chefs Code of Conduct to celebrate and elevate the very best of our industry. Hospitality has always been powered by passion, creativity, exceptional food, and genuine human connection. Now is the time to build on that foundation by embracing a brighter, more progressive future where respect, care, fairness, and wellbeing are the new standard. This Covenant marks a fresh start, moving away from outdated practices toward kitchens rooted in dignity, sustainable hours, fair compensation, mental health support, and joyful leadership. By putting People first. Excellence always, we are creating healthier teams, stronger businesses, and more vibrant spaces where talented professionals thrive and guests experience even greater hospitality.

A New Chefs Code of Conduct – Personal Covenant Initiative Led by: Chefs’ Table Society of British Columbia | chefstablesociety.com

My Personal Promise

I, the undersigned hospitality professional, commit to a higher standard in our industry.

People first. Excellence always.

I believe the best kitchens and teams are built on respect, care, excellence, and joy — not fear, intimidation, shouting, or burnout.

I publicly adopt and agree to uphold all seven principles of A New Chefs Code of Conduct in my own practice:

  1. Respect and Dignity for Every Person Talk to others like you want your guests spoken to. Give feedback in private. Celebrate wins publicly. My leadership and conduct must be clear, kind, empathetic, and always respectful.
  2. Safety and Inclusion: Zero Tolerance for Harassment Zero Tolerance for Harassment Zero tolerance for sexual harassment, bullying, or any form of abuse from anyone. Report issues promptly, handle them fairly, and do not tolerate retaliation.
  3. Fair Pay and Real Learning Opportunities I support compensation that aligns with experience and the local cost of living. I advocate for transparency, correct overtime, and structured learning stages (maximum 30 days) that are true professional development opportunities with mentoring and goals — never just free labour.
  4. Sustainable Hours and Real Work-Life Balance I support and model maximum 8–10 hour shifts. No regular scheduling over 40 hours per week. Everyone should receive at least 32 hours free from work each week and two consecutive days off per month, plus proper breaks, meals, and sick days without penalty.
  5. Mental Health, Wellbeing, and Personal Growth I support the whole person. Mental health resources and confidential counselling are made available. Burnout is addressed proactively. (Vetted resources are available on the resource page, we encourage that all restaurants post their own collection of resources congruent with their geographical area, and where they can be easily found by the staff)
  6. Accountability and Continuous Improvement I take responsibility for my own actions. I make a concerted effort to continually improve my leadership abilities with training, mentorship while remaining open to feedback and growth.
  7. Overall Commitment This Covenant represents my personal fresh start and a new, enlightened direction for our industry.

This is an Aspirational Covenant. Signatories take primary responsibility for monitoring, upholding, and improving their own practices in line with the Code.

All Signatories agree to:

  • Operate in good faith and make genuine efforts to implement the principles.
  • Provide accurate information when signing.
  • Update their listing if contact or business details change.
  • Use the provided resources

By signing, I authorize CTS to list my name, position, and current workplace publicly as a signatory. Colleagues and guests are encouraged to hold me accountable.

How to Join Your personal listing will appear on our public Signatories list within 10 business days after quick verification.