EXECUTIVE CHEF II - WILDCAT COAL LODGE - UNIVERSITY OF KY - LEXINGTON

Chartwells Higher Education is a leading provider of on-campus dining services, operating at over 300 colleges and universities across the United States. As part of Compass Group North America, Chartwells is redefining the dining experience by investing in modern, tech-enabled food and social spaces that foster meaningful relationships and community engagement. Their mission is to nourish not only hungry minds but also to prepare students for success by creating innovative and inclusive dining environments. With a commitment to food-forward creativity and excellence, Chartwells is continuously expanding and evolving, offering career opportunities that encourage professional growth within a diverse and dynamic organization.

The role of Executive Chef II at the Wildcat Coal Lodge, associated with the upcoming partnership between Compass Group and the University of Kentucky launching in July 2026, represents a significant leadership opportunity in this transformational collaboration. This partnership aims to integrate foodservice, hospitality, facilities management, and healthcare support across UK’s campus, healthcare system, and athletics programs to enhance the overall experience for students, staff, patients, and the community. The Executive Chef II will play a crucial role in this innovative environment by leading culinary operations, menu development, and team management to deliver high-quality dining services.

As a lead culinarian, the Executive Chef II will oversee the design and implementation of menus that meet established nutritional and presentation standards while maintaining creativity and precision. Managing budgeting, food costing, inventory, and compliance with health regulations will be key responsibilities. The role also emphasizes mentoring and developing culinary staff, fostering a positive and efficient kitchen culture that aligns with client objectives. This position offers the chance to significantly impact campus life by delivering exceptional culinary experiences and advancing within a rapidly growing organization. The opportunity to work in a high-volume, hands-on foodservice operation requires passion, innovation, and dedication to service excellence. The Executive Chef II position is ideal for candidates who are ambitious, food-savvy, and eager to contribute to a vibrant educational environment where their skills and creativity are valued and developed.