Executive Chef 3 - job 1 of 3

As the Executive Chef 3 at Sodexo in Mankato, your main responsibilities will involve leading the culinary team, enhancing food quality, and executing extraordinary catering events. You will train staff and promote HACCP standards while maintaining financial management through our DRIVE system. Engaging directly with students, you will create memorable dining experiences through innovative cooking techniques and a positive kitchen atmosphere.

To become an Executive Chef 3 at Sodexo in Mankato, you'll need a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience and a minimum of 3 years in food or culinary services. Your ability to manage a team effectively, exhibit strong financial acumen, and demonstrate proficiency with HACCP standards will be essential to succeed in this role.

The work culture at Sodexo for an Executive Chef 3 is dynamic and supportive. Emphasizing diversity and inclusion, Sodexo fosters an environment where employees are valued, respected, and encouraged to share their ideas. You'll be part of a passionate team dedicated to improving the quality of life for students through exceptional food service and catering.

As an Executive Chef 3 at Sodexo in Mankato, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision care, along with paid time off, company holidays, and a 401(k) plan with matching contributions. Additionally, you'll have access to career growth opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and a supportive work environment that values your contributions.

Sodexo prioritizes food quality and student satisfaction by empowering the Executive Chef 3 to implement innovative culinary techniques, supervise staff training, and maintain high standards through HACCP protocols. The emphasis on hands-on cooking demonstrations and interactive dining experiences ensures that students receive the 'Wow Factor' they deserve.

When interviewing for the Executive Chef 3 position, explain your approach to balancing quality while minimizing waste. Highlight your experience with budgeting tools like the DRIVE system, and detail specific strategies you've used in previous roles to manage food costs efficiently.

In your interview, showcase your familiarity with HACCP principles and your commitment to maintaining those standards in the kitchen. Provide examples of how you've implemented these protocols effectively in previous roles to ensure food safety and quality.

Discuss your training methods for staff, such as hands-on demonstrations, regular workshops, and fostering a supportive environment for questions. Highlight how you've successfully onboarded new team members in past positions to ensure they align with your culinary standards.

Share examples of innovative dining experiences you’ve designed, like live cooking stations and themed events. Emphasize your ability to cater to diverse tastes while ensuring the experiences are interactive and memorable for students.

In your response, emphasize the importance of communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude. Explain how you lead by example and encourage open dialogue among team members to foster a collaborative and enjoyable work environment.

Discuss how you consider student dietary requirements, seasonal ingredients, and nutritional values when planning menus. Provide examples of how you incorporate student feedback into your menu development process.

Share a specific story about a complex catering event, detailing the challenges faced. Describe how you addressed these challenges and ensured the event's success, emphasizing your organizational skills and team collaboration.

Explain your approach to recipe development, from initial brainstorming to testing and feedback. Highlight your flexibility to adapt recipes based on feedback or dietary needs while ensuring a high standard of quality.

Discuss your experience with inventory management and compliance protocols. Emphasize your ability to work within budgetary constraints while maintaining quality by building strong relationships with suppliers.

Articulate your passion for cooking and your desire to impact student life positively. Connect your personal values with Sodexo's mission and highlight how you believe your skills and experiences align with the role's responsibilities.