Executive Chef Manager - Texas School Nutrition

Whitsons Culinary Group•DeSoto, TX

11d•$80,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

Executive Chef Manager – Lead Culinary Excellence Across the District! Are you a seasoned culinary leader with a passion for school nutrition, team development, and operational excellence? Join Whitsons as an Executive Chef Manager and take the lead in shaping healthy, high-quality meals for thousands of students—while supporting and mentoring chef and kitchen managers district-wide.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field (Nutrition, Culinary Arts, Food Service Management, etc.)
5+ years of experience in K–12 food service leadership
Strong background in culinary production and team development
In-depth knowledge of school nutrition programs and government food compliance
ServSafe certification required
Excellent communication, organizational, and critical-thinking skills
Ability to travel to all school sites; must have reliable transportation
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiar with digital platforms for communication and reporting
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with concentration in food and nutrition, food service management, dietetics, family and consumer sciences, nutrition education, culinary arts, business or a related field.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with any academic major AND a state recognized certificate in food and nutrition, food service management, dietetics, family and consumer sciences, nutrition education, culinary arts, or business.
At least one year of management experience preferably in school nutrition strongly recommended.
ServSafe Mandatory – Local food safety certification if required in jurisdiction of employment.
Must be knowledgeable of all local ordinances.
Proficiency in all Microsoft Office applications is required.
Must be able to communicate electronically through use of email and other similar computer platforms.
Able to learn new programs easily and quickly.
Minimum 5-years’ experience in K-12 programs required.
Strong interest in school nutrition program development.
Culinary background is required - Must have a passion and an interest in food
Working knowledge of cooking procedures and recipe adherence and scaling.
Must have demonstrated experience developing talent and managing multiple priorities
Must be able to use “critical thinking” skills in order to resolve problems or would result in improving program overall.
Ability to effectively communicate verbally, electronically and written with clients, parents, students and support staff.
Must possess excellent time management and organizational skills

Nice To Haves

SNS Certification a plus
School Nutrition Specialist Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Supervise and support chef managers and kitchen managers across the entire school district
Oversee culinary production, food quality, and program compliance with USDA, NSLP, and HHFKA guidelines
Coach and mentor managers to meet high standards in food safety, menu execution, cost control, and staff development
Monitor food, labor, and operational costs to ensure financial accountability at every location
Conduct regular kitchen visits (80% of the time spent in schools) to observe operations and support team members
Ensure readiness for internal audits and state/local health inspections
Partner with the Resident District Manager and General Manager to enhance food service initiatives
Lead monthly team meetings and contribute to wellness, nutrition, and administrative committees
Drive marketing and participation with on-site promotions and engaging presentations
Prepare reports, performance reviews, and communications that keep stakeholders informed and inspired