EXECUTIVE CHEF - K12 Novi School District, Novi, MI
Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.
Job Summary
Are you an impactful culinary leader with a passion for exceptional catering and innovative food experiences? Novi Community School District—the top-ranked K-12 account in Michigan—is seeking an Executive Chef to oversee premium catering operations while supporting food service across 10 schools serving 7,100 students. This role is key to implementing high-end events for up to 1,000 guests, from VIP board meetings to elegant white-linen functions, with an expectation for magnificent presentation, service, and execution.
In addition to catering, you’ll help lead a branded Starbucks café at the public library, including menu development. This position also plays a vital role in leading showcase culinary events & Demo's, such as farmers markets featuring live pumpkin carving, stir-fry and hibachi demos, and the district’s signature Discovery Kitchen Student Cookoff. You’ll lead and develop a seasoned team of 75 multilingual associates, so a calm, coaching-forward leadership style is critical.
You’ll report to the Director of Dining Services and be supported by a strong leadership team, including another Executive Chef and an Assistant Director. This Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–3:30 PM role appreciates true work-life balance with limited nights, weekends, and no holidays, plus the opportunity to elevate your career with the industry-leading Compass Group. We’re looking for professionals who love kids, thrive on food innovation, and flourish through community engagement. If you're ready to lead with heart, creativity, and excellence—this is your moment to shine!
Key Responsibilities:
- Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards, ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines.
- Trains kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols, promoting a culture of excellence.
- Establishes and maintains detailed cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas.
- Handles inventory of food and supplies, optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available.
- Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits.
- Actively participates in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends.
- Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Associate’s degree highly desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts.
- 5+ years of dynamic culinary/kitchen management experience, catering experience preferred.
- Shown success in high-volume, sophisticated foodservice operations, with a solid base in institutional and batch cooking.
- Hands-on chef experience is critical, accompanied by extensive knowledge of food trends, emphasizing quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
- Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office suite and email systems.
- Willingness to actively engage in client happiness programs and activities.
- ServSafe certification is highly desirable, highlighting a dedication to food safety.
Apply to Chartwells Schools today!
Chartwells Schools is a member of Compass Group USA
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Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.
Chartwells K-12 maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Associates at Chartwells K-12 are offered many fantastic benefits.
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Life Insurance/ AD
- Disability Insurance
- Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
- Associate Shopping Program
- Health and Wellness Programs
- Discount Marketplace
- Identity Theft Protection
- Pet Insurance
- Commuter Benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Paid Parental Leave
- Personal Leave
Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here for paid time off benefits information.
Req ID: 1430513
Chartwells K12
KRISTEN STROHMYER
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