Director of Culinary Innovation: Drive Next-Gen Menu

Inspire

Atlanta (GA)

On-site

USD 150,000 - 190,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Inspire, the parent company behind SONIC, is seeking a seasoned leader to drive culinary innovation at its Atlanta offices. You will partner with the VP of Product Category Management & Culinary to shape menu strategy and deliver differentiated products.

You will own development from concept to launch, lead a cross-functional team across operations, QA, supply chain, and marketing, and ensure alignment with financial and brand goals. Travel up to 50% as needed.

Qualifications

4 Year Degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science or related degree is required for this position.
10+ Years experience in a culinary or product development role.
True Passion for food & beverage - a Food Storyteller.
Leader and team player.
Excellent communication skills (oral and written) in multiple mediums to multiple audiences including public speaking & written (including electronic communications).
Ability to manage 50-75+ projects at various stages of completion.

Responsibilities

Lead Strategic Menu Development & Product Innovation across core menu, platforms, beverages, LTOs, and ingredients.
Own product development from concept through commercialization and launch.
Collaborate with Category Management and Insights to translate consumer, market, and business insights into winning menu solutions.
Lead culinary ideation sessions, product tastings, and innovation workshops with internal and external partners.
Balance culinary innovation with operational feasibility, quality standards, and financial objectives.
Lead culinary workstreams during testing, validation, commercialization and launch readinness.