Area Executive Chef

Sodexo; DeKalb (IL); On-site; USD 82,000 - 106,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

401(k) Plan with Matching

Paid Time Off

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Sodexo is seeking a senior culinary leader to oversee multi-site operations across DeKalb and nearby locations. You will drive culinary excellence, standardize procedures, and lead menu development to meet client needs while ensuring safety and quality.

You will manage people, set direction, deploy resources, and mentor teams, balancing profitability with outstanding dining experiences. This role emphasizes collaboration and professional growth within a supportive culture.

Qualifications

• Experience leading multi-site culinary operations.
• Strong menu development and cost-control skills.
• Proven leadership in team development and safety compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead multi-site culinary operations and standardize procedures across locations.
• Develop and mentor teams to improve performance and service quality.
• Oversee procurement and cost control to ensure high-quality ingredients and profitability.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Menu development

Team mentoring

Cost control

Education

Associate/Bachelor degree

Job description

Lead multi-site culinary operations, menu innovation, food quality, cost control, and team development. Ensure exceptional dining experiences, safety compliance, and operational excellence across assigned locations.

Oversee multi-site culinary operations, menu innovation, food quality, cost control, and team development. Enjoy strong work-life balance, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career growth in a supportive culture.

About the job

Take on a leadership position where your vision and expertise will drive culinary excellence. You’ll lead the charge in standardizing operations, fostering team development, and crafting innovative menus that meet diverse client needs, all while building strong partnerships that elevate the dining experience.

Accountable for managing people, setting direction and deploying resources; typically is responsible for performance evaluation, pay reviews and hire/fire decisions. Results are primarily achieved through the work of others and typically depend on the manager's ability to influence and negotiate with parts of the organization. Progression within Career Band reflects acquisition of broad technical expertise, business and industry knowledge, and process and people leadership capabilities. Accountable for business, functional or operational areas, processes or programs, which may include dotted-line or matrixed management.

Pay Range: $81685 - $105710

What’s in it for you

Build strong client relationships, drive organizational excellence, lead menu development initiatives, and develop high-performing teams to deliver exceptional culinary experiences and operational success.

• Lead the implementation of streamlined culinary systems that boost consistency and operational success.
• Inspire and mentor a dedicated team, shaping future leaders and promoting professional growth.
• Oversee procurement and purchasing to ensure top-quality ingredients and cost- effective sourcing.
• Design menus that balance creativity with client preferences and nutritional standards.
• Champion fresh, innovative culinary ideas that keep dining experiences exciting and relevant.
• Cultivate meaningful relationships with clients through exceptional service and collaboration.
• Play a key role in shaping culinary strategy and driving continuous improvement across your area.

What you’ll bring

What You Bring: Strong structure and organization, a passion for developing high-performing teams, proven menu development expertise, and the ability to drive culinary excellence, consistency, and operational success across multiple locations.

• Extensive culinary expertise with a proven track record in high-volume, fast-paced kitchen environments.
• Leadership and management skills, with experience mentoring teams and driving professional development.
• Advanced menu planning abilities combined with a deep understanding of current culinary trends and client preferences.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with proficiency in computer systems to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and the ability to implement processes independently that improve productivity and consistency.
• ServSafe certification and solid working knowledge of HACCP principles to ensure food safety and compliance.

Requirements

• Education Requirement: Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Management Experience: 1-3 years
• Related Experience: 1-3 years

What we offer

Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
• 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.

Who we are

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.

Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.