Executive Chef, Universities

Job Description

Role Overview :

Sodexo's Campus Segment  is seeking an  Executive Chef  to lead the culinary team at Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota.   As  Executive Chef, you will lead daily culinary operations in a high-volume resident dining program and catering services, as well as various sporting event concessions. This is a hands-on leadership position that requires strong culinary skills, exceptional organization, and a collaborative spirit. You will be actively engaged with students, faculty, and staff—especially during peak service times—to ensure an exceptional dining experience.

You'll take the lead in menu planning, production, team scheduling, marketing initiatives, and overall kitchen operations in a fast-paced, student-focused environment.

What You'll Do :

Lead all aspects of culinary production for resident dining and catering

Be present and engaged during service hours to interact with and support the campus community

Collaborate with campus stakeholders and team members to deliver an exceptional dining experience

Oversee food safety, sanitation, and compliance standards

Manage labor scheduling, food and labor costs, and inventory control

Contribute to marketing and student engagement strategies

What We Offer :

Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include :

• Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
• 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.

What You Bring :

Proven leadership experience in culinary operations, with prior supervisory responsibilities

A strong culinary background, including production and food safety expertise

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt quickly in a dynamic environment

Familiarity with Sodexo systems like DRiVE and Market Connections (TMC), or a readiness to learn new technology quickly

A passion for customer service and delivering high-quality food experiences.

Who We Are :

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.

Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.

Qualifications & Requirements :

Minimum Education Requirement - Associate's Degree or equivalent experience

Minimum Management Experience - 2 years

Minimum Functional Experience - 2 years work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.