National Corporate Chef | Menu Strategy & Mentorship Lead

Thompson Hospitality; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Thompson Hospitality Corporation seeks a Corporate Chef to lead culinary strategy across multiple locations nationwide. You will mentor chefs, design cycles, and support new account openings while ensuring top quality and compliance.

The role requires a proven track record in multi-unit food service leadership, strong purchasing and cost-control skills, and extensive travel to sites. A culinary degree and ServSafe certification are essential.

Qualifications

• Degree in Culinary Arts from a recognized institution or equivalent industry experience.
• At least five years of progressive leadership in food production or culinary management.
• Experience managing multi-unit culinary operations strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with menu management and purchasing programs; cost controls.
• ServSafe certification required; Certified Executive Chef designation preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead orientation for new Chefs and ensure understanding of culinary standards.
• Design and implement menu cycles with clients across locations.
• Support opening new accounts and renovation projects within the territory.
• Provide culinary leadership to chefs nationwide and mentor teams.
• Recruit and assess culinary talent through interviews and demonstrations.
• Coach and train culinary teams to foster creativity and high performance.
• Collaborate with Corporate Executive Chef, Regional Operations, and unit teams to ensure alignment.
• Uphold food safety regulations and best practices.
• Demonstrate ownership and commitment to quality in every interaction.

Skills

Leadership

Multi-unit management

Menu design

Budgeting & cost control

Purchasing programs

Mentoring & coaching

Food safety standards

Travel frequently

Education

Degree in Culinary Arts (CIA, Johnson & Wales)

ServSafe certification

Certified Executive Chef (preferred)

Tools

Webtrition

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Thompson Hospitality Corporation seeks a Corporate Chef to lead culinary strategy across multiple locations nationwide. You will mentor chefs, design cycles, and support new account openings while ensuring top quality and compliance.

The role requires a proven track record in multi-unit food service leadership, strong purchasing and cost-control skills, and extensive travel to sites. A culinary degree and ServSafe certification are essential.