Role Overview:
Sodexo is seeking an experienced Executive Chef 1 to lead culinary operations at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ—a dynamic campus undergoing exciting growth and transformation. This role will oversee the Residential Dining Hall and Catering program, leading a team of ~20 hourly employees. The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking culinary leader who thrives in evolving environments and is passionate about elevating food quality, team development, and the overall dining experience as the campus moves toward becoming a flagship account.
What You'll Do:
- Lead and execute all culinary operations for residential dining and campus catering, ensuring high-quality, consistent food production and presentation
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Manage, train, and develop a team of approximately 20 employees with a strong focus on mentorship, recognition, and engagement
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Oversee catering operations with an emphasis on polished presentation, creativity, and client satisfaction
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Manage food and labor costs, including scheduling and payroll oversight
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Oversee inventory, purchasing, and vendor relationships to ensure efficient operations
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Support campus growth initiatives and adapt quickly to facility and cultural changes
What We Offer:
Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
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Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
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401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
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Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
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Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement
More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.
What You Bring:
- Progressive culinary experience with at least 2+ years in a leadership role (Executive Chef, Sous Chef, or above in upscale/high-end environments)
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Strong catering experience with a keen eye for detail and elevated presentation standards
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Experience with scheduling, payroll, inventory management, and purchasing
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Comfort working in a changing environment and contributing to culture transformation
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Bilingual (Spanish/English) skills highly preferred
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Prior experience in campus dining or contract food service (Sodexo or similar) preferred, but not required
Who We Are:
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.
Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.
Qualifications & Requirements:
Minimum Education Requirement - Associate's Degree or equivalent experience
Minimum Management Experience - 2 years
Minimum Functional Experience – 1 year work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.
