Executive Chef 2

Founded in 1966, Sodexo is a global leader in quality of life services, partnering with schools, universities, and numerous other sectors to deliver exceptional food and facilities management solutions. Sodexo’s Campus Segment specializes in providing innovative dining experiences tailored to educational institutions, ensuring students and staff enjoy nutritious, diverse, and satisfying meals in welcoming environments. The company's commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and operational excellence has positioned it as a trusted partner in enhancing community well-being worldwide.

Central Connecticut State University (CCSU), home to over 10,000 students, boasts a dynamic and expanding culinary landscape. Sodexo is actively seeking an Executive Chef 2 to lead and enhance the university’s multifaceted dining program. This includes flagship venues such as Memorial Hall Café, the recently opened Hilltop Café, Starbucks outlets, multiple retail food venues, and the innovative new concept known as ZIME. The Executive Chef 2 will be pivotal in ensuring culinary operations run smoothly across these diverse venues while maintaining exemplary food quality standards and fostering an outstanding student dining experience.

This role demands a seasoned culinary professional who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and is eager to take on a leadership position with significant responsibility. The selected Executive Chef will oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring that food production aligns with menu specifications, recipes, and presentation standards. Their expertise will be essential in managing inventory, ordering processes, cost controls, and production forecasting, all to meet financial goals without compromising quality.

Additionally, the role involves direct oversight of kitchen staff development, nurturing a team-oriented and inclusive culture where culinary excellence flourishes. The Executive Chef will conduct ongoing training and mentorship, promoting growth and adherence to food safety and sanitation protocols, including HACCP compliance. Close collaboration with client leadership is required to continually enhance the dining experience, reflecting student preferences and evolving culinary trends.

A comprehensive understanding of labor management, payroll processes, and scheduling within union workforce environments is necessary, as the role includes navigating collective bargaining guidelines effectively. Furthermore, the Executive Chef will partner with front-of-house teams to ensure seamless food service across dining venues, retail points, and catering operations, contributing to a cohesive and enjoyable dining atmosphere throughout campus.

Sodexo values innovation and adaptability, encouraging the Executive Chef to engage in new concept rollouts and seasonal menu changes, keeping the culinary offerings fresh and exciting. This leadership role provides ample opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the campus food culture while supporting Sodexo’s mission of creating better everyday experiences for the university community.

Compensation is equitable and reflective of the candidate's experience, qualifications, and education level. Sodexo also offers a robust benefits package that promotes wellness, career growth, and work-life balance, reinforcing its commitment to employee satisfaction and professional development. Joining Sodexo at CCSU means becoming part of a global organization dedicated to quality, inclusion, and making a positive difference in people’s daily lives.