Airline Lounges Executive Chef

Sodexo is a global leader in providing integrated food services and facilities management, dedicated to enhancing quality of life and customer experience in various sectors including corporate, healthcare, education, and travel. With a presence in numerous countries, Sodexo focuses on delivering innovative solutions that improve the everyday lives of millions of people. The company emphasizes strong values such as diversity, inclusion, and respect, creating a workplace environment where employees can thrive, contribute ideas, and grow professionally.

The Airline Lounge segment of Sodexo presents an exclusive employment opportunity for an experienced Executive Chef to lead culinary operations at the Polish Airlines Lounge located in O'Hare International Airport, Chicago, IL. This role entails overseeing the creation and delivery of an upscale, culinary-driven experience within a sophisticated travel oasis designed to provide travelers with premium comfort and exceptional food quality. The Executive Chef position is a hands-on leadership role requiring extensive experience managing upscale food production with a focus on high-volume catering and event execution.

The ideal candidate is expected to possess an eclectic culinary expertise, with a background in hotels or restaurants involving scratch kitchens and large-scale food production. This role demands expertise in purchasing, menu compliance, inventory management, food cost analysis, and food production forecasting. Additionally, the Executive Chef must ensure Sodexo culinary standards are met, including recipe compliance and maintaining high food quality. The candidate will lead and motivate culinary teams to embrace innovations while strictly adhering to food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards. Familiarity with automated systems for food inventory, ordering, production, and management is highly advantageous.

The compensation for this role is competitive and reflective of the candidate's education, experience, and skills. Sodexo promotes career growth and offers comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, 401(k) with matching contributions, paid time off, company holidays, and tuition reimbursement opportunities. New employees receive detailed benefit information upon hire.

This leadership position requires a strong culinary background with demonstrated ability to stay current with culinary trends. Candidates should have 2-3 years of Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager leadership experience within recognized establishments. Proficiency in computer applications such as Word, Excel, and Office is necessary. Exceptional leadership, communication, coaching, and employee development capabilities are essential to uphold Sodexo's high culinary standards and foster a culture of food innovation and excellence.

Sodexo's commitment to inclusivity ensures that all employees are valued regardless of race, gender identity, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. The company fosters an environment that supports diversity, equal opportunity, and respect. This role not only offers a chance to lead culinary excellence at a prestigious airport lounge but also to be part of a company that values each individual's contributions and promotes personal and professional growth in a supportive setting.