Sodexo Live! Airline Lounges is seeking an Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for the American Express Centurion Lounge at JFK Int'l Airport. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for delivering an elevated guest experience.

Strong leadership experience in scratch kitchen operations is required, with a preference for candidates from luxury hotel, restaurant, or hospitality backgrounds. Nights, weekends, and holiday availability is required.

About the job

Step into a high-impact culinary leadership role where your expertise will shape operations across large or multi-unit environments. You'll drive innovation in menu creation, coach and develop top-tier talent, and elevate standards through hands-on training and strategic support.

The role of an individual contributor within the organization focuses on completing specific tasks and projects; contributing directly through their skills and expertise. Performs specialized technical tasks to support operations. Work is primarily achieved independently, however may collaborate with a team.

Pay Range: $103445 - $133870

What's in it for you

• Lead culinary operations at scale, supporting diverse teams across complex, high- volume accounts.
• Bring creativity to life through hands-on recipe development, menu planning, and culinary production.
• Strengthen operational performance through plate costing, inventory control, and expert use of culinary management systems.
• Serve as a mentor and trainer, advancing food safety, FMS best practices, and culinary standards.
• Play a key role in recruiting and developing strong culinary talent across multiple locations.
• Use your systems knowledge to streamline workflows and boost efficiency.
• Represent the brand with confidence in client-facing presentations, new program launches, and retention efforts.

What you'll bring

• Extensive culinary management experience in high-volume or multi-unit operations, with a proven ability to lead complex teams and deliver consistent results.
• Deep expertise in menu planning, plate costing, and recipe development, with a sharp eye for culinary trends and innovation.
• Technical skills and proficiency in culinary systems (e.g., FMS), along with exceptional organization and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to create processes, drive efficiency, and solve problems independently.
• ServSafe certification and working knowledge of HACCP, with a commitment to upholding the highest food safety standards.

Requirements

• Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• Management Experience: 5 years
• Related Experience: 3 years

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.