Airline Lounges Executive Chef - job 2 of 2

Role Overview

Sodexo Live! Airline Lounge Segment has an exciting opening for a Club/Lounge Executive Chef at the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at JFK International Airport in New York, NY.  This luxurious space is dedicated to elite passengers, providing them with the unique Virgin Atlantic experience, including à la carte dining, premium cocktails, and exclusive relaxation areas. As we prepare to mobilize the lounge, we are seeking a dynamic and energetic Executive Chef focused on elevating the guest experience to the highest standard.

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse offers guests the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate with a menu that features a mix of contemporary international cuisine and British classics. Guests can enjoy à la carte dining with fresh, seasonal ingredients or sip on premium beverages from the full-service bar. As the Executive Chef, you will lead the daily operations and manage a dedicated team of sous chefs, chefs, cooks, stewards, porters, and appearance care staff, ensuring a seamless guest experience that reflects Virgin Atlantic’s luxury brand.

This is a hands-on chef role, actively involved in daily service operations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in food, beverage, and culinary services, a strong attention to detail, and a deep commitment to customer service excellence, all while maintaining the signature Virgin Atlantic safety and service standards. You will also be responsible for managing financials and cost controls to meet both Sodexo and Virgin Atlantic’s business goals.

What You'll Do

The successful candidate will:

• be responsible for purchasing, menu compliance, inventory, food cost analysis and food production forecasting;
• a fine dining, ala carte background and experience at the executive chef level;
• ensure Sodexo Culinary standards including recipe compliance and food quality are implemented;
• have the ability and willingness to develop and motivate team members to embrace culinary innovations;
• ensure food safety, sanitation and workplace safety standard compliance; and/or
• have working knowledge of automated food inventory, ordering, production and management systems.

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

 Is this opportunity right for you? We are looking for candidates who have:

• a strong culinary background, with the demonstrated ability to stay current with new culinary trends;
• at least 3-5 years of Executive Chef level experience in a recognized, top performing concept or location;
• excellent leadership and communication skills with the ability to maintain the highest of culinary standards;
• strong coaching and employee development skills; and/or
• have a passion for food and innovation.

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 - Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience

Minimum Management Experience - 3 years   

Minimum Functional Experience - 3 years work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.