Executive Chef

Sodexo Live! is a leading provider of event hospitality services known for delivering exceptional experiences at some of the most prestigious venues worldwide. The company prides itself on creating memorable moments not just for guests and visitors but also for its team members. Operating in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, Sodexo Live! offers more than just a job – it offers a chance to be part of something greater, where no two days are the same and where the diversity of people and experiences come together to create a unique workplace. With a strong commitment to employee growth, development, and creating a positive work culture, Sodexo Live! ensures that its team members have everything they need to thrive both personally and professionally.

The position of Executive Chef at Sodexo Live! in Birmingham, Alabama, specifically within the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex, Protective Football Stadium, and Legacy Arena, is a prestigious role that offers a unique blend of culinary leadership and operational management. The Executive Chef will be responsible for overseeing culinary operations across multiple venues including a 220,000 sqft exhibition hall, numerous meeting rooms, a 3,000-seat concert hall, a 1,000-seat theatre, and a newly built 45,000-seat football stadium featuring 36 suites and a 1,200-person club area. The stadium is home to UAB Football and hosts a variety of events including major concerts, NCAA basketball games, and the 2022 World Games.

This role requires an experienced culinary professional capable of managing a high-volume operation with estimated revenues ranging from $10 to $12 million annually. The Executive Chef will lead the culinary management team in all facets of food preparation, product handling, equipment use, food safety, and staff management. They will play a critical role in training, scheduling, menu planning, recipe standardization, food costing, and ensuring sanitation and safety standards are met. The position demands strong financial acumen, leadership abilities, and the capability to analyze daily business volumes and product usage to optimize operations. The Executive Chef is also expected to collaborate with business strategy teams to contribute to the development and implementation of operational plans that drive success.

This role covers a variety of venues including the Protective Football Stadium, which holds events such as UAB football games and the Birmingham Bowl, with state-of-the-art facilities including 36 suites and a large club area. The Legacy Arena hosts G-League basketball, concerts, college basketball, and more with an 18,000-seat capacity and multiple concession stands.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of culinary leadership experience, including at least 3 years managing operations with revenues over $10 million. Educational credentials such as an Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) or higher degree in culinary arts or equivalent professional certification are required. Preferred qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Business or Hospitality, and certifications like the ACF Certified Executive Chef I or ACF Certified Culinary Administrator. The role demands physical stamina to withstand wet floors, temperature extremes, noise, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds as part of daily duties. The schedule often includes extended or irregular hours including nights, weekends, and holidays. Sodexo Live! is committed to equal employment opportunity and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds without discrimination.