Executive Chef 3

Sodexo Corporate Services is a global leader in providing quality food services, catering, and integrated facilities management solutions. With a strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life for their clients and employees, Sodexo operates in diverse settings, delivering exceptional customer experiences through innovative culinary programs and outstanding service. Their focus on sustainability, employee well-being, and community engagement distinguishes them as a premier employer in the corporate services sector.

At their Lawrence Township, NJ location, Sodexo manages a high-profile corporate dining operation with a total managed volume of approximately $2 million. This multifaceted dining program includes a café and retail dining area, a daycare dining program catering to children, and a diverse catering service that supports township events, VIP engagements, and after-hours receptions. The café operates daily from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM, featuring a variety of offerings such as house-made soups, fresh sushi, deli station items, grill specialties, a chef's kitchen, hearth/pizza, salad bar, and a Starbucks retail location. The daycare dining service serves around 90 children, with increased volume during summer camps, and the catering program balances 70% day-to-day catering with 30% special events, offering diverse menus and service styles that allow creative freedom.

The Executive Chef 3 position at this Sodexo Corporate Services account is a dynamic leadership role that blends culinary expertise with operational management and creative innovation. Reporting as the culinary heartbeat of the operation, the Executive Chef 3 leads a culinary team consisting of 24 cooks and contributes to the leadership of a total team of 30 hourly employees. The role requires close collaboration with three salaried managers, including the General Manager, Operations Manager, and Catering Manager, to ensure smooth integration of culinary and operational goals.

The Executive Chef 3 drives culinary excellence and innovation by creating and refining menus on a four-week rotation, introducing fresh ideas, seasonal offerings, and elevated presentations that enhance the dining experience across the café, catering, and daycare programs. This hands-on role demands approximately 80% presence in the kitchen, overseeing catering production, tastings, and special event execution to maintain consistency, flavor excellence, and top-tier food quality.

In addition to culinary responsibilities, the Executive Chef 3 manages the business aspects of the operation, including ordering, inventory, food cost control, and partnering with the General Manager on labor strategy. Regular weekly meetings with the client ensure strong communication, alignment, and the ability to respond proactively to evolving needs.

Sodexo offers competitive compensation packages based on education, experience, skills, and training. The company provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision care, wellness programs, a 401(k) plan with matching contributions, paid time off, company holidays, and career growth opportunities with tuition reimbursement. Sodexo fosters an inclusive workplace culture that values diversity, respect, and equal employment opportunities, creating an environment where employees can thrive and grow professionally.

This Executive Chef 3 role is ideal for a creative, innovative chef with a passion for elevating culinary experiences and leading a motivated team in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment. The position balances operational excellence with opportunities for creativity and partnership with clients, making it an exciting and rewarding career opportunity at Sodexo Corporate Services in Lawrence Township, NJ.