System Culinary Director

Role Overview

Are you a culinary leader who thrives on innovation, develops high-performing teams, and is passionate about delivering exceptional dining experiences?

Sodexo is seeking System Culinary Director to lead culinary excellence across University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, one of the nation's premier academic health systems.

This executive leadership role is responsible for shaping the culinary vision across a complex, multi-site healthcare system. The ideal candidate has a proven history of leading large, diverse culinary teams, mentoring and developing talent, driving procurement and cost management strategies, creating innovative and patient-centered menus, and executing upscale catering and executive dining experiences. Success in this role requires a collaborative leader who can inspire teams, build strong client relationships, and elevate every aspect of the dining experience.

A valid driver’s license and acceptable driver’s license record check is required. 

Sodexo offers a range of services to healthcare facilities, including food, nutrition, environmental, facilities management, healthcare technology management, retail, and patient experience services. Employees at our healthcare sites play a crucial role in enhancing patient experience and well-being

What You'll Do

• Responsible for the innovation of product and recipe development, budgets, and program implementation 
• Oversight of training for new products and recipes
• Direct client contact and interaction 
• Responsible for the innovation of new product and recipe development, recipe costing, and managing the portfolio of products within the existing Sodexo retail brands
• Design and execute upscale, seasonal menus for a wide range of catered events, including executive functions, VIP dining, and large-scale gatherings
• Lead culinary production for catering services, ensuring consistency, quality, and presentation standards are met at the highest level
• Develop innovative food concepts and conduct live cooking demonstrations and interactive culinary experiences
• Collaborate with nutrition, wellness, and leadership teams to align menus with organizational standards and dietary needs
• Manage ordering, inventory, and cost controls to meet budgetary goals while maintaining premium quality

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 experience in high-end catering, hospitality, or healthcare environments
• Strong background in menu development with a focus on upscale, modern cuisine and presentation
• Experience with live cooking demonstrations, chef tables, or interactive dining experiences preferred
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple events and priorities
• Solid understanding of food cost management, labor planning, and operational efficiency
• Knowledge of dietary accommodations, including allergen management and wellness-focused menus
• Certified Executive Chef (CEC) Required

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 - 5 years

Minimum Functional Experience - 5 years of experience in product development or a related field