EXECUTIVE CHEF

At over 300 college & universities around the country, Chartwells Higher Education is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience. We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. We are food-forward difference makers, bound together by a desire to feed hungry minds and prepare students for success.

We are seeking hungry, humble and smart associates who are looking to join and grow with a diverse organization. We invite you to start your career journey with us and look forward to hearing from you.

Job Summary

Join Our Team as the Executive Chef for Concessions & Athletics at the University of Houston!

Are you ready to lead the culinary charge and elevate the game-day experience at one of the nation's premier athletics programs? Chartwells Higher Education is seeking a visionary Executive Chef to join us at the University of Houston. This is your opportunity to shape the atmosphere, drive innovation, and make a lasting impact on campus life.

Why Choose Us?

Storied Athletics Program : Join us at the University of Houston, where athletics excellence is ingrained in our culture. As the Executive Chef, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional culinary experiences that enhance the excitement of game day.

Endless Growth Opportunities : At Chartwells, we're committed to investing in your professional development. With a supportive environment and a wealth of growth opportunities, you'll have the resources you need to thrive and succeed in your career.

Collaborative Culture : Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of excellence. Together, we'll create memorable experiences that keep fans coming back for more, fostering a collaborative environment where innovation thrives.

Key Responsibilities :

VIP Catering Execution : Execute VIP catering services with precision and attention to detail, ensuring an unforgettable experience for guests.

Staff Engagement and Guidance : Coordinate, engage, and guide staff on menu execution, ingredient utilization, equipment operation, kitchen flow, time management, food safety, and sanitization.

Vendor Relationships : Establish relationships with quality vendors to procure seasonal, local, and sustainable ingredients, ensuring the highest standards of quality and freshness.

Athlete-Centered Approach : Collaborate with the performance nutrition department to tailor menus to athletes' individual metabolic and nutritional needs, demonstrating a deep understanding of nutrition and performance nutrition trends.

Creativity in Menu Development : Showcase creativity and variety in menu development, featuring simple, elevated, and refined dishes that captivate the taste buds.

Leadership and Training : Lead and mentor a team of culinary professionals, providing guidance on food preparation, presentation, safety, and sanitation practices.

Financial Oversight : Forecast annual food and labor costs, monitoring financial performance to drive efficiency and profitability.

Professional Development : Engage in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay ahead of culinary trends and best practices, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation.

Adaptable Support : Embrace flexibility and adaptability, taking on additional duties as needed to ensure the success of our culinary operations.

Preferred Qualifications :

A.S. or equivalent experience

5+ years of progressive culinary / kitchen management experience, depending upon formal degree or training

Extensive catering experience a plus

High volume, complex foodservice operations experience - highly desirable

Institutional and batch cooking experiences

Hands-on chef experience a must

Comprehensive knowledge of food and catering trends with a focus on quality, production, sanitation, food cost controls, and presentation

Must be experienced with computers; to include Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Power Point), Outlook, E-mail and the Internet

Must be willing to participate in client satisfaction programs / activities

ServSafe certified - highly desirable