Executive Chef - Forsyth Country Day School at Compass Group Winston Salem, NC

Flik Independent School Dining, a division of Compass Group USA, has been a leader in transforming private and independent school foodservice for over forty years. Serving over 300 educational communities across the country, Flik is committed to delivering exceptional foodservice experiences that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients and sustainable agricultural practices. Their mission goes beyond just providing meals; they incorporate cutting-edge nutrition education programs designed to empower students to make healthy and informed food choices. This holistic approach creates nourishing environments that promote health, well-being, and community, setting a high standard for school dining services nationwide.

The Executive Chef position at Forsyth Country Day School (FCDS) represents a unique opportunity within this innovative and passionate team. Located in Lewisville, NC, near Winston-Salem, FCDS is a prestigious private, co-educational institution serving preschool through high school students. This role offers a competitive salary range of $55,000 to $65,000 annually with a Monday to Friday work schedule and holidays off, providing an excellent work-life balance.

As Executive Chef, you will lead the culinary operations and be pivotal in shaping the school’s dynamic foodservice culture. This hands-on leadership role involves creative menu planning, food preparation, and recipe development that emphasize nutrition, flavor, and visually appealing presentations. You will oversee kitchen operations, manage food and labor costs to maintain budget compliance, handle purchasing and vendor relations, and ensure adherence to rigorous food safety and sanitation standards including HACCP and allergy protocols.

In addition to operational responsibilities, the Executive Chef will mentor and develop a talented culinary team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence. Collaboration with marketing and culinary teams will allow you to launch seasonal menus and special promotional programs aimed at enhancing the dining experience for students and staff. Special events and catering support also fall within the scope of this role, necessitating high-quality food production and precise execution.

The position demands a strong passion for food quality, safety, and innovation, with proficiency in kitchen operations software and common office applications. Ideally, candidates will hold a culinary degree or equivalent training and bring 3-5 years of culinary management experience in high-volume environments such as restaurants, hotels, or catering. A ServSafe Certification and catering experience are preferred.

Joining Flik means contributing to an organization that values equity, diversity, and inclusion, and actively supports its employees with comprehensive benefits. The Executive Chef will play an essential role in continuing to deliver top-tier culinary services that nourish not just the body but also the community school's spirit, ensuring every meal served supports a brighter and healthier future for the students.