RETAIL INNOVATION CHEF - CHARTWELLS HIGHER ED - REMOTE

Compass Group • Charotte, DC

3d • $120,000 - $140,000 • Remote

About The Position

The Retail Innovation Chef is a key culinary leader responsible for driving retail food service innovation, menu development, and brand execution across Chartwells Higher Education dining programs. This role reports directly to the Senior Vice President of Culinary and will work in close partnership with the Internal Brand Manager to bring branded retail concepts to life across campus accounts. This position blends culinary expertise with strategic execution, supporting the development, rollout, and continuous improvement of innovative retail dining experiences that enhance student engagement and drive program performance.

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5+ years of progressive culinary experience, with a strong focus on retail or multi-unit foodservice
• Experience in higher education dining or contract foodservice preferred
• Proven track record of menu innovation and concept development
• Strong understanding of food trends, student preferences, and retail dining dynamics
• Ability to translate culinary ideas into scalable, operationally sound programs
• Excellent communication, presentation, and training skills
• Willingness to travel (as needed to support accounts and launches)

Nice To Haves

• Creativity and innovation
• Operational and financial acumen
• Brand awareness and consistency
• Collaboration and influence
• Adaptability and problem-solving
• Passion for student-focused dining experiences

Responsibilities

• Retail Innovation & Menu Development
• Brand Support & Execution
• Operational Excellence
• Training & Engagement
• Collaboration & Strategy

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401K
• PTO
• Annual Incentive Plan
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree