Corporate Chef- Associate Director

Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America•Itasca, IL

14d•$130,000 - $140,000•Hybrid

About The Position

At Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition, we are making significant advances in food and health with new ideas and innovative technologies. We are seeking candidates with energy and enthusiasm to be part of our growing team throughout North America. As an Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition employee, you are part of a diverse, innovative, and collaborative community committed to enhancing lives through nutrition and health. Our team is committed to providing amino acid-based solutions that create better lives for all. We do not use AI to screen applications. Applications and resumes of qualified applicants are reviewed by a real person because we value your time and believe each qualified applicant deserves thoughtful, human consideration. It’s an old ‑ fashioned approach—done with purpose. Why Join Us Our people are the key ingredient to our success. We offer a collaborative, innovative environment where you can grow your career and make an impact on global food and health solutions. We provide a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package, including: Competitive Pay and Annual Bonus Opportunity 401(k) with Company Contributions Medical, Dental, and Vision — Effective Day 1 Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, and Floating Holidays Paid Parental Leave Wellness Programs and Yearly Wellness Reimbursement Work Flexibility Company-Paid Life and Disability Insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Tuition Reimbursement Opportunities Career Growth and Development within a Global Organization Company-Provided Mental Health and Caregiving support Overview Corporate Chef leads the food service strategy to drive business growth through innovative culinary solutions and strong customer relations. This role partners with Sales and R&D to support and expand business with core customers and niche out opportunities with new customers. The corporate chef plays a pivotal role in planning and executing customer engagements. The corporate chef will lead and grow relationships in QSR, Fast Casual, and Multi-Unit foodservice channels. As a culinary industry expert, the Corporate Chef provides culinary leadership to the wider organization, delivers educational programs, and supports the innovation and commercialization process to accelerate market growth.

Requirements

Culinary degree or comparable experience. (Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required)
10+ years expertise in food service.
Experience in food science/R&D/food Manufacturing space.
Direct experience with sales/account management or experience supporting sales.
Experience with the QSR (Quick service restaurant)/Fast Casual/Muti-Unit foodservice markets.
Strong presentation skills
Ability to lead and execute high level engagements with proven results
Strong industry connections and reputation
Ability to support sales and lead on foodservice accounts
Adaptable to change and embraces a flexible learning style
Proactive/open to innovation
Involvement in professional organizations outside of Ajinomoto
Ability to work effectively across departments
Strong culinary network

Nice To Haves

Certified Research Chef certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

Spearhead and help determine the food service strategy
Grow food service opportunities
Conduct educational opportunities both internal and external to Ajinomoto
Support sales in foodservice accounts and within other target markets outside of foodservice
Develop and lead customer engagements that result in revenue opportunities
Collaborate with R&D by providing the culinary function
Prepare in-house culinary experiences for top customers and dignitaries