Executive Chef of Culinary Services

CJ Schwan's is a renowned food company dedicated to creating memorable food experiences that bring people together. With a rich portfolio including iconic brands like Red Baron, bibigo, Tony's, Big Daddy's, Freschetta, Pagoda, Edwards, and Mrs. Smith's, CJ Schwan's products are enjoyed in homes, schools, restaurants, and various food service locations. The company prides itself on quality, innovation, and a commitment to delivering food that not only satisfies but also creates cherished moments for customers and families alike.

As a Corporate Executive Chef based at their new corporate headquarters and kitchen in Hopkins, MN, you will play a pivotal role in the culinary leadership and strategic direction of the company. This position is vital in supporting category and channel marketing efforts by providing expert culinary solutions that position CJ Schwan's as a trusted and leading business partner in the food industry. The role involves high levels of engagement and travel, with up to 70% travel required to attend various national food events and promotional activities.

In this role, you will conduct routine visits and sales calls to key customer accounts, identifying new product and service opportunities while providing essential culinary technical support. Your leadership will be showcased at regional and national food shows and special events where your expertise in culinary trends and techniques will be influential. You will support field training initiatives, helping the sales force and key customers understand product knowledge, menu applications, concept selling, serving instructions, food styling, and plate presentation. Your culinary knowledge will be instrumental in developing recipes and product applications for promotional efforts across various media including trade journals, cookbooks, and digital platforms.

Critical to this role is your ability to analyze target restaurant menus and operations to identify gaps that CJ Schwan's product portfolio can address. You will also develop culinary prototypes for new products and collaborate with the Product Development team to optimize flavor, texture, and appearance, ensuring the products meet the highest standards. You will provide leadership insights into customer needs and competitor analysis, developing culinary samples and 'gold standard' specifications for new and enhanced products. The role requires close collaboration with R&D to deliver operator-focused culinary innovations.

This position offers a competitive base salary range from $83,000 to $139,000 annually, coupled with eligibility for a 20% annual incentive bonus based on organizational performance. CJ Schwan's provides a comprehensive Total Rewards package focused on employee well-being, including health benefits, retirement and financial wellness programs, paid time off, and various support programs. The company is committed to equal employment opportunities, ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration without discrimination based on disability, age, race, color, religion, gender, veteran status, national origin, or other protected statuses.