Chef Manager

Syracuse University is a prestigious private, international research university located in Syracuse, New York. Known for its distinctive academic programs, expansive offerings, and vibrant campus culture, it provides an exceptional environment for students, faculty, and staff. With a legacy dating back over 150 years, Syracuse University serves a diverse student body of over 15,000 undergraduates and 6,000 graduate students. The university features 13 schools and colleges offering more than 200 majors and numerous advanced degree programs. Its global footprint and inclusive community empower a broad spectrum of learners from all 50 U.S. states and over 120 countries. Syracuse University embodies a rich tradition of academic excellence, extensive research initiatives, and a commitment to providing an engaging, inspiring campus experience that fosters collaboration, mentorship, and personal growth.

The role of Chef Manager is a critical position within the Office of the Chief Operations Officer at Syracuse University, located on the Syracuse, NY campus. This full-time, exempt position offers a pay range of $80,000 annually and operates within standard university business hours, adapting slightly between the academic year and summer season. The Chef Manager reports to the Campus Executive Chef and holds ultimate responsibility for the culinary direction of the central kitchen department, overseeing all aspects of food preparation, culinary innovation, and event catering.

The successful candidate will bring both innovative, on-trend national and international culinary concepts with a focus on flavor, presentation, and sustainability. They will incorporate sustainability practices such as using locally sourced products whenever possible, supporting environmentally friendly norms while crafting diverse menus reflective of global cuisines. The Chef Manager is expected to have extensive experience in high-caliber, high-touch catering environments, demonstrating strong leadership and team training skills. This includes guiding culinarians on proper culinary techniques, cooking procedures, sanitation, and safety standards. The position requires a versatile skill set encompassing a broad knowledge of knife skills, cooking vegetables, proteins, grains, and the preparation of complex sauces and world cuisines.

This role demands expertise in planning, executing, and presenting innovative catering menus that appeal to the varied tastes of the Syracuse University community while maintaining a commitment to health and sustainability. Collaboration is key, as the Chef Manager develops recipes alongside the Executive Chef and coordinates ingredient sourcing and budgeting with Purchasing Agents and vendors. They take full responsibility for all catering activities, ensuring adherence to cost controls and upholding the university’s brand management standards.

Beyond technical culinary duties, the Chef Manager fosters a culture of culinary excellence and teamwork in the kitchen, ensuring that every event and meal service meets the university’s high standards. This position entails regular in-person presence at the Syracuse campus to uphold the university’s commitment to a vibrant, engaged campus community, consistent with university policies that emphasize collaboration and spontaneous connections made through onsite work. Syracuse University values a respectful, welcoming work environment and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, reflective of its rich community backgrounds and experiences.

Applicants are encouraged to submit both a resume and cover letter as part of their application process. Syracuse University also provides a supportive environment for veterans and military-connected individuals, emphasizing its historic and ongoing commitment to these communities. Located in central New York, the Syracuse area balances a low cost of living with rich cultural and recreational opportunities, making it an attractive place for professionals committed to excellence in their field.