Head of Culinary Innovation & Growth

sweetgreen; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 229,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus plan

Medical plans (3 options)

Dental & Vision insurance

Flexible PTO

401k program

Employee HSA and FSA

Complimentary greens

Sweetgreen swag

Job summary

Sweetgreen is seeking a Head of Culinary in the Greater Los Angeles area to lead the culinary team and shape the company’s strategic culinary direction. You will oversee menu development, ensure top quality, and drive innovation across all channels in alignment with our food ethos.

The role requires a track record of 10+ years in multi-unit restaurant settings, 5+ years leading teams in culinary and commercialization, and strong leadership skills. Relocation to the LA area is expected.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in multi-unit restaurant companies, developing and executing menus.
• 5+ years of experience leading teams across culinary, food science, and commercialization.
• Deep understanding of restaurant operations and management of hourly employees in fast-casual or full-service settings.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Drive Menu Innovation to fuel growth and profitability and oversee development and testing of new menu items.
• Develop new menu items to enhance brand distinctiveness and align with food ethos.
• Stay updated on industry trends to inform ingredients and preparation methods.
• Lead commercialization to scale concepts across channels and partner with vendors.
• Create a culture of innovation and speed to market within the culinary team.
• Collaborate with marketing, operations, and procurement for alignment of culinary initiatives.
• Support training programs for all levels of culinary staff.
• Nurture core menu offerings to maintain high standards of quality.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Cross-functional collaboration

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Sweetgreen is seeking a Head of Culinary in the Greater Los Angeles area to lead the culinary team and shape the company’s strategic culinary direction. You will oversee menu development, ensure top quality, and drive innovation across all channels in alignment with our food ethos.

The role requires a track record of 10+ years in multi-unit restaurant settings, 5+ years leading teams in culinary and commercialization, and strong leadership skills. Relocation to the LA area is expected.