Inverness Golf Club Welcomes New Executive Chef

The Inverness Golf Club has announced the hiring of a new Executive Chef, welcoming Jack Delby, CEC to the club. Delby, who came on board during the first week in May, has spent nearly three decades overseeing the dining experience at leading Marriott properties including the Renaissance Convention Center in Schaumburg and the new Marriott Marquis in Chicago.

"We are very fortunate to hire someone with the culinary background that Jack brings," said William Skelnik, general manager and COO at Inverness Golf Club. "With the renovation of our main dining room and bar nearly complete, and the upcoming opening of our new Center Court ultra-casual dining spot, our members will experience exceptional dining based in traditional menus with some new exciting refinements."

In addition to overseeing kitchens at the Marriott properties, Delby has also taught in the highly-regarded culinary program at the College of DuPage. During the first few weeks of his tenure, Delby has spent time get acquainted with the club and its members.

"I needed to see why things are the way they are before making any changes," Delby said. "A lot of the things on the menu should be left as they are, but over time I will expand the menu and bring some new touches to it. My approach is to learn first."

To that end, Delby spent time working the serving stations at the club's Mother's Day brunch and during a recent club golf outing. He said that getting to know the members and their collective tastes will help him identify where enhancements can be made.

The club is upgrading its kitchen equipment as well as installing a wood-burning oven for the new Center Court addition. Delby said that the wood-burning oven and the use of plant-based products are two of the hottest trends in the food industry.

"I am definitely into the classical way of cooking: Sauteing, roasting, braising. We will focus on the basics and then introduce some innovative touches to excite the members," he said. "Food should be simple and elegant. Keep it simple and recognizable and people will relate to that."

Both Delby and Skelnik noted the camaraderie that exists among the staff at Inverness Golf Club, and how that team approach translates well to the members.

"I think the members will see and appreciate how excited Jack is to be here," Skelnik said. "Inverness Golf Club will continue to be the place to be in this community."

For more information visit www.invernessgolfclub.org