Executive Chef: Lead Culinary Innovation & Ops

Sodexo; Lincolnshire (IL); Hybrid; USD 71,000 - 92,000; 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 standardize operations, mentor teams, and craft innovative menus that meet diverse client needs. You will build strong partnerships that elevate the dining experience while driving continuous improvement across the operation.

The role blends leadership with hands-on contribution in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen, emphasizing ServSafe and HACCP compliance and strategic culinary planning.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of streamlined culinary systems to 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.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary expertise

Menu planning

Organizational skills

Problem solving

ServSafe

HACCP

Education

Associate or Bachelor degree

Tools

Computer systems

Job description

Lead culinary excellence at one of the nation's premier high schools. Seeking a creative, high-energy Executive Chef to oversee 5,000-6,000 meals daily and deliver exceptional dining and high-profile catering experiences.

Bring your talent to Adlai E. Stevenson High School with Sodexo, where you'll lead a large culinary team, create innovative menus, and execute premier events. Ideal for a chef who thrives on leadership, creativity, and hospitality excellence.

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.

The role of an individual contributor within the organization focuses on completing specific tasks and projects; contributing directly through their skills and expertise. Performs specialized technical tasks to support operations. Work is primarily achieved independently, however may collaborate with a team.

Pay Range: $70975 - $91850

What’s in it for you

• 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

• 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. If you need assistance with the application process, please completethis form.