EXECUTIVE CHEF, ELKHART, IN

Chartwells K12 is a leading provider of school food services across the United States, dedicated to ensuring students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than when they arrived. With a workforce of more than 16,000 associates serving over 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 leverages decades of experience in food, education, and operations. The company is driven by a team of experts in culinary arts, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability, making it a pioneer in creating innovative and appealing meal programs tailored to children’s needs and preferences. Chartwells K12 is part of Compass Group USA, a global leader in food services, which emphasizes fairness, inclusion, and employee development as integral to its corporate culture.

The Executive Chef role at Elkhart, Indiana, is a critical leadership position responsible for overseeing all culinary functions for a specific dining account. The ideal candidate will manage and lead a team of associates while ensuring compliance with all safety and sanitation standards. This role involves comprehensive management of cost controls and expenditures, developing and designing menus, purchasing and inventory management, and the rollout of new culinary initiatives in collaboration with the marketing and culinary teams. The Executive Chef must bring creativity, operational excellence, and a strong commitment to quality dining experiences that meet nutritional standards for K-12 students. The position pays according to Pay Grade 15 and is eligible for an employee referral bonus, highlighting the company’s focus on sourcing qualified candidates through trusted networks.

This role demands a culinary professional who thrives in a high-volume, fast-paced environment and understands the unique challenges of school food service. Preferred qualifications include a culinary degree and three to five years of culinary management experience, particularly in high-volume production and catering operations. Previous experience with cost control management is essential, as is a genuine desire to grow with a respected foodservice company. The Executive Chef will have opportunities to innovate menus and culinary programs that directly impact student satisfaction and health, while also managing operational budgets and team dynamics. This position offers a meaningful career path within a well-established, supportive, and forward-thinking organization committed to nutrition, wellness, and sustainability.