Executive Chef 3

Sodexo Corporate Services is a global leader in providing integrated food services and facilities management solutions across various sectors. Known for its commitment to improving the quality of life for its clients and employees, Sodexo brings a unique blend of culinary expertise, innovation, and operational excellence to its offerings. The company prides itself on its inclusive culture that values diversity and fosters an environment where every team member feels respected and empowered to contribute their ideas. Sodexo’s extensive experience and dedication to sustainability and social responsibility have positioned it as a trusted partner in corporate dining and hospitality services worldwide.

This Executive Chef 3 role is an exceptional opportunity within Sodexo’s Corporate Dining & Culinary Innovation division, located in Lawrence Township, NJ. The position oversees a high-profile flagship corporate dining operation with a total managed volume of approximately $2 million. The culinary program under this role is multifaceted, encompassing café and retail dining, daycare dining, and comprehensive catering services. The café operates daily from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM and features a wide range of offerings such as house-made soups, fresh sushi, deli stations, grills, chef’s kitchen specialties, hearth and pizza selections, salad bars, and a Starbucks retail outlet. The daycare dining segment serves around 90 children, with increased volume during the summer camps, ensuring nutritious and appealing meals for young ones in a dynamic environment.

The catering program managed by the Executive Chef includes 70% day-to-day catering and 30% special events like township functions, VIP engagements, and after-hours receptions, which usually conclude by 6 PM. This variety allows for creative freedom in menu design and service styles, emphasizing culinary innovation and quality. Operating hours typically fall Monday through Friday, from 6 AM to 4 PM, with occasional rare evening events.

As the Executive Chef, you will be the culinary heartbeat of this operation, leading a skilled team of 24 cooks and helping to guide a total team of 30 hourly employees. Collaborative work with three salaried managers—the General Manager, Operations Manager, and Catering Manager—is essential to ensure a seamless and successful dining experience. Your leadership will extend into every aspect of culinary operations, from creating and refining innovative menus on a 4-week cycle to hands-on involvement in daily execution approximately 80% of the time. This role requires a dynamic leader who can maintain consistency, flavor excellence, and food quality while driving new ideas and seasonal offerings across all dining platforms.

Moreover, you will manage ordering, inventory, and food costs effectively, partnering with the General Manager on labor strategies, and maintaining strong communication through weekly client meetings. Sodexo offers competitive compensation, with salary based on a candidate's education, experience, and skills. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision care, wellness programs, a 401(k) with matching contributions, paid time off, company holidays, career growth opportunities, and tuition reimbursement.

Sodexo values chefs who bring passion for innovation, strong communication skills, and the ability to mentor and engage staff. The company fosters a supportive, respectful, and diverse workplace where every employee’s voice matters. By joining Sodexo as an Executive Chef 3, you become part of a mission to create a better everyday experience, influencing the culinary landscape in a prestigious corporate environment and contributing to broader community progress.