Campus Executive Culinary Leader

Sodexo is a global leader in providing food, nutrition, environmental, and facilities management services with a strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life for those they serve. With a comprehensive approach to service, Sodexo partners with a wide range of clients including educational institutions, healthcare facilities, corporate organizations, and government agencies to deliver exceptional dining, catering, and operational solutions. Their presence at college campuses, like Washington University (WashU) in Saint Louis, MO, plays a vital role in fostering a positive and healthy learning environment for students, faculty, and staff. At these locations, Sodexo focuses not only on culinary excellence but also on meeting the nutritional and wellness needs of its community, ensuring that every dining experience contributes to healthier living and academic success.

The role of Campus Executive Chef at Washington University represents a prestigious and impactful leadership position within Sodexo’s collegiate services. This executive chef will oversee all culinary operations on the WashU campus, which encompass resident dining, retail food outlets, catering services, concessions, and an on-campus restaurant. Managing a talented team of six Executive Chefs and one Production Manager, the Campus Executive Chef will be responsible for ensuring smooth culinary operations and delivering top-tier food services. The position’s responsibilities include overseeing purchasing, menu compliance, inventory control, food cost analysis, and forecasting food production to meet demand efficiently. A strong emphasis is placed on upholding Sodexo’s culinary standards, including strict adherence to recipe guidelines and maintaining excellent food quality and safety standards.

In addition to culinary and operational duties, the Campus Executive Chef will serve as a critical leader and motivator, developing and inspiring team members to embrace new culinary innovations and trends. Effective leadership and communication skills are essential for fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment that pushes culinary boundaries while prioritizing food safety, sanitation, and employee workplace safety standards. Proficiency in automated food inventory systems, ordering, production, and management software is crucial for streamlining operations and driving continuous improvement.

The role offers competitive compensation, which is determined based on the candidate’s education, experience, skills, and training, reflecting Sodexo’s commitment to fair and equitable pay practices. Furthermore, employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision care, wellness programs, 401(k) with matching contributions, paid time off, company holidays, career growth opportunities, and tuition reimbursement. New hires receive detailed information about these benefits to support their overall well-being and career development.

Working at Sodexo means joining a company dedicated to creating a better everyday for everyone. Sodexo values diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where employees feel respected and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. The company is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. They aim to build a strong, dynamic team where each individual’s ideas and opinions contribute to collective success.

In summary, the Campus Executive Chef at Washington University with Sodexo is a pivotal role that blends culinary expertise with strategic leadership to enhance the campus dining experience. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about food and innovation, who possess strong coaching and employee development skills, and are eager to lead a high-performing culinary team in a dynamic educational environment. Sodexo offers a supportive, inclusive workplace where culinary professionals can thrive, make a meaningful impact, and advance their careers within a globally respected organization.