Executive Chef - Waco

The Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB) is the largest hunger-relief organization in Central Texas, operating as a proud member of the Feeding America network. Headquartered in Austin, CTFB serves a broad 21-county region with a dedicated mission to increase food access by providing nutritious food to those in need. Beyond direct food distribution, the organization leads efforts in hunger and poverty advocacy, transforming lives through innovative programs and educational outreach. Each year, through a vast network of about 250 nonprofit community partners and direct services, CTFB supports over 612,000 food-insecure individuals, making a tangible difference in Central Texas's fight against hunger. The organization fosters a collaborative and community-focused culture that embodies its core values: Service, Integrity, Dignity, Collaboration, and Innovation.

This newly created Executive Chef role is a unique and pivotal position responsible for leading the launch and ongoing operations of CTFB's new commercial kitchen located in Waco, scheduled to open in May 2026. This role is critical as it will directly impact the organization's ability to expand its meal production and food programs effectively. The Executive Chef will take charge of building, training, and managing a diverse kitchen team, ensuring that the culinary operations align with the organization's mission and goals. They will oversee various kitchen programs, including core meal production for partner agencies, meals supporting existing food bank programs, summer meal initiatives, and medically tailored meals designed for specific dietary needs.

In addition to team leadership, the Executive Chef will be tasked with managing food forecasting and inventory, standardizing and optimizing production recipes to maintain quality and consistency, and setting presentation and quality standards to uphold the food bank’s reputation. Menu planning and pricing will be under the Executive Chef's purview, ensuring meals are both nutritious and cost-effective. Maintaining the commercial kitchen's equipment and ensuring compliance with all safety, sanitation, and food handling regulations are critical responsibilities to safeguard both employees and the recipients of the food programs.

Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, the Executive Chef will also function as a highly visible leader within the organization, collaborating extensively across departments to support and enhance overarching organizational goals. Success in this role requires a blend of culinary expertise, strong leadership, excellent interpersonal skills, and a high level of professionalism. This position presents an exciting opportunity for a motivated culinary leader passionate about making a profound social impact through food service and hunger relief efforts.