Executive Chef - Culinary Leader & Operations

Compass Group USA; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

Life Insurance/AD&D

Disability Insurance

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Holiday Time Off

Personal Leave

Associate Shopping Program

Health and Wellness Programs

Discount Marketplace

Identity Theft Protection

Pet Insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Flexible Spending Accounts

Job summary

Compass Group USA is seeking an Executive Chef to lead daily culinary operations and administrative functions. You will drive culinary quality, ensure safety standards, and elevate guest experiences across diverse dining environments.

The role requires 5+ years of leadership in premium food service, with a focus on sustainability and cost optimization. A strategic, team-centered leader will thrive in this dynamic setting.

Qualifications

• Degree from an accredited culinary institution preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience as an Executive Chef or similar role.
• Proven ability to foster a culture of food safety, workplace safety, and operational excellence.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders and lead diverse teams.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, kitchen management systems, and other operational technology tools.
• Passion for culinary innovation, hospitality, sustainability, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
• Demonstrated financial acumen, including budgeting, labor management, inventory control, and cost optimization.

Responsibilities

• Food Safety & Compliance: Ensure food safety compliance with allergen management, sanitation protocols, and regulations.
• Guest Experience Leadership: Design, oversee, and enhance the end-to-end dining experience.
• Culinary Excellence: Lead by example with food quality, presentation, and flavor.
• Operational Management: Maintain adherence to menu standards and production guidelines.
• Wellness & Nutrition: Develop balanced, high-quality meal offerings.
• Hospitality Culture: Foster a welcoming, service-focused environment.
• Team Leadership & Development: Recruit, train, coach culinary team members.
• Administrative Oversight: Manage payroll, scheduling, reporting, and HR documentation.
• Procurement & Sustainability: Align purchasing with standards and sustainability initiatives.
• Talent & Compliance Management: Oversee hiring, onboarding, training, and certifications.

Skills

Leadership

Financial management

Food safety

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Team leadership

Culinary excellence

Education

Culinary degree (preferred)

Tools

Google Workspace

Kitchen management systems

Job description

Compass Group USA is seeking an Executive Chef to lead daily culinary operations and administrative functions. You will drive culinary quality, ensure safety standards, and elevate guest experiences across diverse dining environments.

The role requires 5+ years of leadership in premium food service, with a focus on sustainability and cost optimization. A strategic, team-centered leader will thrive in this dynamic setting.