Job Description
Executive Chef Manager – Lead Culinary Excellence Across the District!
Are you a seasoned culinary leader with a passion for school nutrition, team development, and operational excellence? Join Whitsons as an Executive Chef Manager and take the lead in shaping healthy, high-quality meals for thousands of students—while supporting and mentoring chef and kitchen managers district-wide.
What You’ll Do:
- Supervise and support chef managers and kitchen managers across the entire school district
- Oversee culinary production, food quality, and program compliance with USDA, NSLP, and HHFKA guidelines
- Coach and mentor managers to meet high standards in food safety, menu execution, cost control, and staff development
- Monitor food, labor, and operational costs to ensure financial accountability at every location
- Conduct regular kitchen visits (80% of the time spent in schools) to observe operations and support team members
- Ensure readiness for internal audits and state/local health inspections
- Partner with the Resident District Manager and General Manager to enhance food service initiatives
- Lead monthly team meetings and contribute to wellness, nutrition, and administrative committees
- Drive marketing and participation with on-site promotions and engaging presentations
- Prepare reports, performance reviews, and communications that keep stakeholders informed and inspired
What We’re Looking For:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field (Nutrition, Culinary Arts, Food Service Management, etc.)
- 5+ years of experience in K–12 food service leadership
- Strong background in culinary production and team development
- In-depth knowledge of school nutrition programs and government food compliance
- ServSafe certification required; SNS Certification a plus
- Excellent communication, organizational, and critical-thinking skills
- Ability to travel to all school sites; must have reliable transportation
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiar with digital platforms for communication and reporting
Why Join Whitsons?
- Competitive compensation
- Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance
- 401K with company match
- Paid Time Off
- Leadership role with meaningful community impact
- Family-friendly schedule
- Supportive company culture focused on development, purpose, and wellness
- Be part of a mission-driven team that’s Enhancing Life One Meal at a Time™
At Whitsons, we believe food is more than fuel—it’s a pathway to health, learning, and connection. As Executive Chef Manager, you’ll help lead a team that feeds the future with purpose and pride.
Ready to serve up leadership with heart? Apply now and help us nourish the next generation—at Whitsons our mission is Enhancing Life One Meal at a Time™.
$80,000 - $90,000