Executive Chef

Position Title Executive Chef Job Category Academic Staff Employment Type Regular Job Profile Executive Chef Job Duties Under the general direction of the Director of Dining & Retail Services (DRS), this position supports the University’s mission by leading the department in delivering high-quality food services and exceptional customer experiences across all service areas. The Executive Chef serves as the culinary expert and visionary responsible for food quality, menu development, culinary innovation, and presentation standards. Provides leadership, supervision, and professional development for culinary staff and serves as a public representative of Dining & Retail Services. This Position Has Full Responsibility For Culinary Program Administration Across Multiple Service Platforms, Including Residential Dining, Retail Operations, And Catering Services And Requires The Following: Strong knowledge of culinary principles and high-volume food production. Leadership and staff development skills. Ability to manage multiple operations. Financial and operational analysis capability. Strong communication and problem-solving skills. Key Job Responsibilities 35% Staff Leadership, Development, and Supervision Directs, supervises, and develops kitchen production staff to ensure effective operations and quality outcomes Designs, implements, and evaluates training programs including food safety, culinary skills, and waste reduction Establishes performance expectations and conducts evaluations Promotes an inclusive and engaged work environment Oversees staffing plans and labor utilization 30% Culinary Program Management & Menu Development Direct and administers menu development across all units Ensures alignment with dietary needs and customer preferences Integrates seasonal and local sourcing Oversee recipe testing, costing, and documentation Collaborates on procurement standards 15% Culinary Operations & Quality Assurance Plans and evaluates production systems Enforces quality and safety standards Ensures compliance with regulations Monitors product consistency and service standards 10% Catering & Special Events Administration Direct and administer UWM Catering operations Establishes catering standards and oversees events Develop partnerships and expand services Monitors financial and operational performance Implements improvements and innovation 5% External Relations & Program Representation Represents Dining Services to stakeholders Supports academic partnerships Promotes culinary programs 5% Financial & Operational Support Analyzes food and labor costs Supports budget planning Evaluates customer feedback Assists with operational support and facilities planning Department Dining and Retail Services Compensation $85,000 - $100,000 Annually Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, business, culinary arts, organizational leadership, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience – associate’s degree plus 8 years of management experience in a higher education setting Minimum of 5 years of progressive foodservice management experience, preferably in a higher education dining environment Demonstrated experience managing food, labor, and operating budgets Knowledge of institutional food purchasing, inventory systems, and POS platforms Experience with standardized recipes, menu development, and production systems Strong written and verbal communication skills Valid Driver’s License and ability to qualify to operate State of Wisconsin vehicles Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in culinary arts, Hospitality Management, or related field. Certified Executive Chef (CEC) Experience in university, college or large institutional dining programs. Experience supervising managers and leading multi-layered teams ServSafe Manager Certification or ability to obtain within required timeframe Equal Opportunity Employer Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr