EXECUTIVE CHEF - Hudson School District, Hudson, WI

Compass Group•Hudson, WI

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.Job Summary Executive Chef – Hudson School District (WI) Are you an innovative culinary professional with boundless energy, a big personality, and a passion for excellence? Join us as the Executive Chef for Hudson School District in Wisconsin! Reporting to the Director of Dining Services, you will oversee all culinary operations across eight schools, serving over 2,000 meals daily. This hands-on leadership role requires strong engagement with students and staff—boots on the ground every day to ensure quality, creativity, and connection. The successful candidate will lead a team of up to 32 frontline employees (district and Chartwells staff), grow our catering program, and drive student engagement while fostering positive client relationships. Must be strong in food costing and ready to market programs through tastings and events. Get behind exciting initiatives like Student Choice, Mood Boost, Discovery Kitchen, Global Eats, and help implement an à la carte sales program. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, entrepreneurial culinary leader to make a significant impact in a premiere K-12 school district while offering a great work/life balance schedule.

Requirements

Associate’s degree highly desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts.
5+ years of progressive culinary/kitchen management experience, (with catering experience preferred).
Proven success in high-volume, complex foodservice operations, with a solid base in institutional and batch cooking.
Hands-on chef experience is critical, accompanied by extensive knowledge of food trends, emphasizing quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office suite and email systems.
Willingness to actively engage in client satisfaction programs and activities.

Nice To Haves

ServSafe certification is highly desirable, highlighting a commitment to food safety.

Responsibilities

Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards, ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines.
Trains kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols, promoting a culture of excellence.
Establishes and maintains thorough cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas.
Handles inventory of food and supplies, optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available.
Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits.
Actively participates in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends.
Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation.