UNC Executive Chef
About The Position
Executive Chef Rocky Top Catering - UNC Chapel Hill Rocky Top Catering is seeking a high-energy, proven, hands-on Executive Chef to lead culinary operations at our UNC Chapel Hill location. This is a flagship leadership role within a complex, high-volume environment that spans institutional dining, athletics, premium stadium hospitality, and upscale catering. The Executive Chef will report directly to the Culinary Director and serve as a key ambassador for our brand, team, and clients. Position Overview The Executive Chef will oversee all culinary facets of a from-scratch operation supporting stadium-wide events, athletic dining, luxury suites and boxes, corporate drop-off catering, and upscale on- and off-site events. The ideal candidate is operationally sharp, logistically minded, administratively strong, and thrives in fast-paced, high-profile environments. This role requires a leader who is firm and concise on the floor, yet approachable, flexible, and supportive when coaching and mentoring the team.
Requirements
- Minimum 5 years of Executive Chef experience in large-scale, high-volume operations (stadiums, arenas, large banquet resorts, cruise lines, or similar environments strongly preferred)
- Proven from-scratch cooking experience
- Strong business acumen with accountability and ownership mindset
- Exceptional organizational and multitasking skills
- Confident, professional communicator capable of representing the brand at the highest level
- Flexible schedule required, including nights, weekends, and some holidays
Nice To Haves
- Multi-unit experience highly desirable
- Stadium or sports venue experience strongly preferred
- Background or working knowledge in nutrition and athletic dietary programs preferred
Responsibilities
- Lead and execute all culinary operations for stadium events, premium hospitality, and catering services
- Plan and execute large-scale events with a logistics-driven, one-month-out mindset, accounting for limited space, time, equipment, and staffing
- Manage and mentor culinary teams through hands-on leadership, coaching, and development
- Maintain high standards for food quality, presentation, safety, and sanitation
- Oversee administrative functions including menu development, costing, labor management, ordering, inventory, and budgeting
- Collaborate closely with the Culinary Director and operations leadership to align culinary strategy with business goals
- Serve as a polished, client-facing representative of Rocky Top Catering, building and maintaining strong client and university relationships
- Support off-site events, large-scale prep at the central commissary kitchen, and other company kitchens as needed
- Ensure compliance with company policies, nutritional standards (including athletic dietary needs), and food safety regulations
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Executive
Education Level
No Education Listed
