EXECUTIVE CHEF I

Compass Group

  • Russellville, AR
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 day ago
Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visitJob SummaryChartwells K12 is seeking a dynamic and passionate Executive Chef to lead the culinary program for the Russellville School District in Arkansas. With 10 schools and over 5,500 students, this is an exciting opportunity to transform school dining into a vibrant, student-centered experience. Reporting to the Director of Dining Services, our Executive Chef will coordinate daily kitchen operations, drive culinary innovation, and ensure food safety and sanitation standards are consistently met.This role requires a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced, multi-site environment. The Executive Chef will be boots on the ground daily, actively engaging with students, training cafeteria staff, and elevating the dining experience through robust catering operations-ranging from smaller classroom events to large-scale district functions. The successful candidate will also be responsible for implementing Chartwells' signature programs such as Mood Boost, Global Eats, Student Choice, and Discovery Kitchen, bringing creativity, education, and excitement to every meal.We're looking for someone who is not only passionate about food, but also deeply committed to community, collaboration, and continuous improvement. If you're a culinary professional with strong catering experience, a love for student interaction, and an aim to make a significant impact, this is your chance to lead with purpose and flavor.Key Responsibilities:
  • Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards, ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines.
  • Trains kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols, promoting a culture of excellence.
  • Establishes and maintains detailed cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas.
  • Handles inventory of food and supplies, optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available.
  • Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits.
  • Actively participates in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate's degree highly desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts.
  • 3+ years of progressive culinary/kitchen management experience, with solid catering experience.
  • Shown success in high-volume, sophisticated foodservice operations, with a solid base in institutional and batch cooking.
  • Hands-on chef experience is critical, accompanied by extensive knowledge of food trends, emphasizing quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
  • Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office suite and email systems.
  • ServSafe certification is highly desirable, highlighting a dedication to food safety.
Apply to Chartwells Schools today!Chartwells Schools is a member of Compass Group USACompass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.Chartwells K-12 maintains a drug-free workplace.Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.Associates at Chartwells K-12 are offered many fantastic benefits.
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave
Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, for paid time off benefits information.Req ID: 1459771Chartwells K12KRISTEN STROHMYER[[req_classification]]

Compass Group