Corporate Chef- Associate Director

Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America, Inc.Itasca, IL
$130,000 - $140,000Hybrid

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. 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.

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

Benefits

  • 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
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