Director of Culinary

Compass Group • Charlotte, NC

2d

About The Position

The Director of Culinary is the senior culinary leader for Spectrum Center, responsible for developing and executing an exceptional food experience across premium clubs, suites, catering, concessions, and special events. The role leads culinary operations for Charlotte Hornets games, concerts, and other high-volume venue experiences, balancing culinary creativity and innovation with operational excellence and strong financial results.

The Director develops trend-forward menus and culinary concepts that reflect Levy’s commitment to great food and celebrate the flavors and culture of Charlotte and the Carolinas. They lead and mentor the culinary team, partner closely with Levy leadership and the venue partner, and continually work to elevate the Spectrum Center food experience. The role also oversees culinary financial performance, operational standards, food safety, and event preparation.

Requirements

• At least 7 years of progressive culinary management experience at the Director, Executive Chef, or equivalent leadership level.
• High-end culinary experience, preferably in upscale restaurants, hotels, resorts, or luxury hospitality environments.
• Demonstrated success leading complex culinary operations with multiple concepts and service styles.
• Strong culinary creativity and the ability to turn trends and ideas into scalable, executable concepts.
• Experience developing and mentoring high-performing culinary teams.
• Strong understanding of food and labor cost management, purchasing, inventory controls, budgeting, and financial performance.
• Strong organizational and operational skills, including the ability to lead during high-volume event periods.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills for partnering with clients, senior leaders, and cross-functional teams.
• Thorough knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
• Flexibility to work an event-driven schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Culinary degree or an equivalent combination of culinary training and leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all culinary operations throughout Spectrum Center, including premium clubs, suites, catering, concessions, and special events.
• Develop innovative, trend-forward menus and culinary concepts that celebrate Charlotte and the Carolinas.
• Lead culinary execution for Charlotte Hornets games, concerts, special events, and other high-volume venue experiences.
• Partner with operations leadership to ensure smooth execution and an outstanding guest experience throughout the venue.
• Build relationships with the Charlotte Hornets, Spectrum Center leadership, vendors, and other key partners.
• Drive menu development, product quality, presentation, consistency, and innovation across culinary concepts.
• Manage food cost, labor, purchasing, inventory, waste reduction, forecasting, and overall culinary profitability.
• Develop and implement operational standards and processes that support efficiency while maintaining food quality and the guest experience.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, workplace safety, and company standards.
• Oversee culinary planning and preparation for major events.
• Identify emerging culinary trends, local partnerships, and concepts that could improve the Spectrum Center dining experience.
• Collaborate with Levy regional and Home Office culinary leadership to implement best practices and promote innovation.
• Develop and mentor high-performing culinary teams.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance and AD
• Disability insurance
• Retirement plan
• Flexible Time Off Plan
• Paid parental leave
• Holiday time off (varies by site and state)
• Personal leave
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and wellness programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet insurance
• Commuter benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed