Menu Innovation Chef - Product Development Lead

FAT Brands Inc; Idle Hour (KY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

FAT Brands Inc. seeks a Corporate Chef to lead product development, menu innovation, and culinary strategy across the organization. You will oversee the test kitchen, supplier collaboration, and cross-functional teams to drive sales and profitability.

Based at our Lexington, KY headquarters, the role requires strong culinary education, menu-item development experience for multi-unit brands, and the ability to guide external partners and communicate across all levels of the organization.

Qualifications

• Strong culinary education or substantial background in full-service and limited-service concepts.
• Experience developing menu items for a multi-unit brand.
• Understanding of restaurant financials including food and labor costs.
• Experience guiding external partners and cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong written and verbal communication and the ability to engage with franchise owners.

Responsibilities

• Oversee product development and menu innovation from concept to execution (80% focus).
• Manage FAT Brands test kitchen operations, inventory, and equipment maintenance (15%).
• Represent the brand in TV, PR appearances and at conferences (5%).

Education

Culinary education

Job description

FAT Brands Inc. seeks a Corporate Chef to lead product development, menu innovation, and culinary strategy across the organization. You will oversee the test kitchen, supplier collaboration, and cross-functional teams to drive sales and profitability.

Based at our Lexington, KY headquarters, the role requires strong culinary education, menu-item development experience for multi-unit brands, and the ability to guide external partners and communicate across all levels of the organization.