Executive Chef - High-Volume University Catering

Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

Life Insurance/ AD

Disability Insurance

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Holiday Time Off

Associate Shopping Program

Health and Wellness Programs

Discount Marketplace

Identity Theft Protection

Pet Insurance

Commuter Benefits

Employee Assistance Program

FSAs

Paid Parental Leave

Personal Leave

Job summary

Chartwells Higher Ed is seeking an energetic Catering Executive Chef for the University of Houston. You will lead culinary operations for a high-volume university catering department, overseeing menu development, kitchen production, food safety, cost controls, and staff supervision.

The role requires culinary management experience, strategic menu design, and a proven track record in delivering flawless events from VIP tastings to large functions.

Qualifications

• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training required.
• Minimum 5-7 years of culinary management experience in high-volume catering, hotels, conference centers, or university dining.
• Demonstrated success managing MILLIONS in annual catering volume.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate diverse staff.
• Proven expertise in menu development, event execution, and cost control.
• Excellent organization, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and event-heavy periods.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement innovative, seasonal, and diverse catering menus that meet client expectations and university brand standards.
• Create custom menus for high-profile events, presidential functions, and VIP receptions.
• Monitor food trends and incorporate new techniques and offerings to keep menus fresh and competitive.
• Oversee all food production for on- and off-site events, ensuring flawless quality, presentation, and timing.
• Coordinate with catering managers and event planners to align culinary needs with event logistics.
• Maintain production schedules and event sheets, ensuring kitchen readiness for daily and large-scale functions.
• Manage food cost targets, labor budgets, inventory processes, and waste reduction strategies.
• Source vendors, maintain strong supplier relationships, and negotiate pricing to maximize profitability.
• Assist in menu pricing based on cost analysis and market conditions.
• Recruit, train, and mentor culinary staff, including sous chefs, cooks, and temporary event staff.
• Schedule and supervise kitchen teams to meet event demands and maintain labor efficiency.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional kitchen culture.
• Ensure HACCP compliance and adherence to health regulations.

Skills

Culinary Leadership

Menu Development

Event Execution

Cost Control

Leadership

Communication

Problem Solving

Flex Schedule

Staff Training

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Chartwells Higher Ed is seeking an energetic Catering Executive Chef for the University of Houston. You will lead culinary operations for a high-volume university catering department, overseeing menu development, kitchen production, food safety, cost controls, and staff supervision.

The role requires culinary management experience, strategic menu design, and a proven track record in delivering flawless events from VIP tastings to large functions.