Culinary Development Director

Aramark is a global leader in food services and facilities management, proudly serving millions of guests across 15 countries every day. Rooted deeply in service and driven by a strong purpose, Aramark is committed to doing great things for its employees, partners, communities, and the planet. The company fosters an inclusive work environment that values diversity and equal employment opportunities, ensuring that every employee feels valued and empowered. Aramark's mission is to create seamless, high-quality experiences that enhance the lives of those it serves, drawing on a long-standing legacy of excellence and innovation in its service offerings.

The Portfolio Group, operating under Aramark's Workplace Experience Group, epitomizes this commitment by delivering unparalleled services from breakrooms to boardrooms, tailored to the unique needs of each business portfolio. This group fosters strong partnerships by consistently prioritizing convenience, consistency, and excellence, thereby driving outstanding client satisfaction. Within this dynamic framework, the Culinary Director for Salute Hospitality plays a vital role in the USAF Food 2.0 portfolio, providing senior culinary leadership across Air Force and Space Force installations nationwide. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Culinary Strategy and Innovations, this position ensures that culinary programs are executed with precision, aligning with stringent military mission requirements and elevating the dining experience for Airmen and Guardians.

The Culinary Director leads a network of Executive Chefs stationed at bases throughout the country, crafting a culinary vision that not only supports mission readiness but also enhances quality of life for service members. This role requires a strategic balance between creativity, cost management, and strict compliance with both military standards and Aramark’s internal policies. The director acts as a pivotal liaison between key stakeholders including military leadership, marketing, procurement, and operations, driving innovations that meet the evolving expectations of military food service.

Beyond oversight and innovation, the Culinary Director champions talent development by mentoring executive chefs and fostering a strong pipeline of culinary leaders. The position is integral to advancing the Food 2.0 modernization initiative by implementing standardized protocols such as HACCP, Tri-Service Food Code adherence, and rigorous training in culinary techniques. Regular field audits and operational assessments are conducted to ensure top-tier food quality, safety, and operational excellence. This role also involves proactive engagement in industry events and trend monitoring to remain at the forefront of military culinary advancements.

With a commitment to reducing costs while enhancing product utilization and operational efficiency, the Culinary Director significantly influences the financial health of the food program. This leadership position requires extensive travel, up to 70 percent, to maintain close collaboration with various installations and stakeholders. The role is suited for an experienced culinary professional with a strong leadership background capable of inspiring teams, driving continuous improvement, and managing complex culinary operations within a highly regulated military environment. Working at Aramark through this position offers an opportunity to be part of a transformative mission that directly contributes to the wellbeing and effectiveness of U.S. military personnel.