Executive Chef: Innovative School Dining & Nutrition

Compass Group USA; Newton (MA); On-site; USD 76,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Flik Independent School Dining is seeking an Executive Chef for Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart in Newton, MA. You will lead all culinary operations for ~375 students, drive menu planning, ensure safety and quality, and manage a kitchen team with a focus on nutrition, taste, and presentation.

The role requires strong leadership, cost control, and experience in high-volume settings, along with a culinary degree and ServSafe certification.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent professional training.
• 3–5 years of dynamic culinary management experience in high-volume environments.
• Ability to lead food and labor costs while maintaining quality.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in scratch cooking, menu innovation, and staff development.
• Proficiency with kitchen operations software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• ServSafe Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead all culinary functions including menu planning, food preparation, recipe development, and service execution.
• Lead food and labor costs; maintain budget compliance and implement cost control strategies.
• Purchase food and kitchen supplies; run vendor relationships and maintain inventory.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and allergy protocols; uphold HACCP standards.
• Recruit, train, and mentor culinary team members, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and learning.
• Collaborate with marketing and culinary teams to launch seasonal menus and promotional programs.
• Support special events and catering functions, ensuring high-quality food and detailed execution.
• Supervise back-of-house operations to ensure cleanliness, organization, and compliance with standards.
• Work with Director of Dining on performance management and annual evaluations.

Skills

Culinary management

Leadership

Cost control

Scratch cooking

Staff development

Kitchen software

Microsoft Office

ServSafe Certification

Education

Culinary degree

ServSafe Certification

Tools

Kitchen operations software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Flik Independent School Dining is seeking an Executive Chef for Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart in Newton, MA. You will lead all culinary operations for ~375 students, drive menu planning, ensure safety and quality, and manage a kitchen team with a focus on nutrition, taste, and presentation.

The role requires strong leadership, cost control, and experience in high-volume settings, along with a culinary degree and ServSafe certification.