Executive Chef, Universities

Executive Chef At Dakota State University

Sodexo's Campus Segment is seeking an Executive Chef to lead the culinary team at Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota. As Executive Chef, you will lead daily culinary operations in a high-volume resident dining program and catering services, as well as various sporting event concessions. This is a hands-on leadership position that requires strong culinary skills, exceptional organization, and a collaborative spirit. You will be actively engaged with students, faculty, and staffespecially during peak service timesto ensure an exceptional dining experience.

You'll take the lead in menu planning, production, team scheduling, marketing initiatives, and overall kitchen operations in a fast-paced, student-focused environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of culinary production for resident dining and catering
• Be present and engaged during service hours to interact with and support the campus community
• Collaborate with campus stakeholders and team members to deliver an exceptional dining experience
• Oversee food safety, sanitation, and compliance standards
• Manage labor scheduling, food and labor costs, and inventory control
• Contribute to marketing and student engagement strategies

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:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
• 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in culinary operations, with prior supervisory responsibilities
• 1-3 years of kitchen management experience in a recognized restaurant or hospitality concept
• A strong culinary background, including production and food safety expertise
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt quickly in a dynamic environment
• Familiarity with Sodexo systems like DRiVE and Market Connections (TMC), or a readiness to learn new technology quickly
• A passion for customer service and delivering high-quality food experiences.

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 experienceMinimum Management Experience - 2 yearsMinimum Functional Experience - 2 years work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.