Regional Executive Chef - West Coast

Sodexo Live! is a recognized leader in the event management and hospitality sector, known for delivering exceptional experiences across some of the world's most prestigious venues. The company specializes in creating memorable moments for fans, visitors, guests, and team members alike, by combining innovative service with top-tier culinary expertise. Sodexo Live! is more than just a place to work; it’s a dynamic environment where every day offers new challenges and opportunities to contribute to something greater. With a culture that values personality, diverse backgrounds, and a commitment to delighting others, Sodexo Live! provides a thriving workplace where employees can develop meaningful careers while making a significant impact on the event hospitality industry.

The Regional Executive Chef position at Sodexo Live! offers an exciting leadership opportunity within the West Coast Region, operating remotely but requiring residence within the specified geographical area. This role provides vital culinary leadership and guidance to the region’s Executive Chefs and General Managers, ensuring adherence to company standards and the Culinary Steering Committee's directives. The role is central to maintaining high standards of food quality, cost controls, and operational efficiency in culinary services. The individual in this position supports the culinary team through ongoing training, mentorship, and coaching on critical operational areas including food cost management, labor cost forecasting, purchasing compliance, inventory control, safety, and sanitation.

As a Regional Executive Chef, you will engage actively with the region’s culinary professionals, conducting regular communications such as monthly conference calls to share culinary initiatives, best practices, and success stories. You will be a valued member of the Culinary Steering Committee, collaborating with senior leaders, including the SVP of Culinary, the Director of Culinary Innovation, and other senior chefs to shape culinary strategies and innovation.

Your role will also involve responsibilities such as assisting the Senior Executive Chef in promoting teamwork, safety, and sustainability initiatives across the region. You will play an integral part in talent management by identifying top performers, mentoring junior chefs, and developing succession plans to ensure a pipeline of skilled culinary leaders. Additionally, your support will extend to new business development activities such as menu development, presentations, event openings, recruiting efforts, and client engagements.

With frequent visits to various units, you will perform culinary audits, safety inspections, and location reviews to uphold Sodexo Live!’s standards. Your ability to identify and communicate support needs effectively and foster strong supplier relationships will contribute to enhancing local partnerships and regional culinary excellence. Participation in major company events like the Annual Culinary Innovation Summit further emphasizes the strategic and innovative nature of this role.

This position demands a culinary professional with a minimum of five years of executive-level experience in high-volume, fast-paced venues such as sports and leisure arenas. A Culinary Arts Degree or equivalent experience is required, alongside proven skills in organizational leadership, food and labor cost management, and communication. Comfort in a physically demanding kitchen environment, flexibility for extended or irregular hours including nights and weekends, and willingness to travel moderately are essential for success in this role.

Sodexo Live! offers a comprehensive benefits package starting from day one, including health savings accounts, flexible spending options, life and disability insurance, accident and critical illness coverage, identity theft protection, and adoption assistance. The company promotes an inclusive and equal opportunity workplace that welcomes applicants of diverse backgrounds and experiences.