Job Description

Job Listing: District Chef

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal.

Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Location We are seeking an experienced District Chef for the San Diego Convention Center located in San Diego, CA.

Unit Description:

The San Diego Convention Center is the region's premier gathering place, hosting conventions, trade shows and community events that economically benefit the City of San Diego and advance our convention and tourism industry. The 2.6 million-square-foot facility is located on sparkling San Diego Bay in the heart of a vibrant downtown and has consistently been recognized as one of the top convention centers in the world. Abundant, flexible space and five-star service make the San Diego Convention Center the meeting planners' choice for hosting major conventions, trade shows, meetings and special events.

The District Chef is the culinary visionary and operational leader responsible for all food production and kitchen operations at the San Diego Convention Center. This role oversees high-volume events ensuring excellence in food quality, safety, innovation, and guest satisfaction. You'll lead a team of chefs and culinary professionals to execute Sodexo Live!'s standards. Responsibilities will include providing ongoing support, training and mentorship to the company's Chefs and managers on food quality, food cost controls, labor cost forecasting and budgets, purchasing compliance, inventory and safety and sanitation.

• Develop and execute seasonal, event-specific, and locally inspired menus across all service areas.
• Champion culinary innovation and elevate guest experience through creative food concepts.
• Collaborate with marketing and design teams to showcase signature dishes and local partnerships.
• Develop and manage food cost budgets, forecasts, and implement cost-control strategies for high P&L performance.
• Analyze sales data to optimize menu offerings and pricing.
• Proactively identify and communicate all support needs in the district and assist with filling these openings from within the region's team.
• Identify top performers within the district and develop a succession plan for all units.

Qualifications/Skills

• 8+ years of culinary leadership in convention centers, hotels, stadiums, arenas, or large-scale hospitality venues.
• Strong knowledge of culinary trends, food safety, and kitchen logistics.
• Culinary Arts Degree and or equivalent work experience.
• Excellent organizational, presentation, written and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage food cost to a budget and identify solutions when target is missed.
• Proven ability to manage labor cost with effective scheduling and forecasting.
• Ability to promote and participate in a team environment as well as function independently.
• Must be able to multitask and prioritize projects as business demands.

Other Requirements

• Must be comfortable in the kitchen environment, frequently work at fast pace with exposure to noise, heat and cold. Must be able to independently inspect and maneuver through facilities in a fast-paced, often tightly quartered environment. Hours may be extended or irregular to include nights, weekends and holidays.
• Hours may be extended or irregular to include nights, weekends and holidays.

Why Join Sodexo Live!?

At Sodexo Live!, we're proud to be experience makers, creating unforgettable moments for people across a wide range of industries and events. We bring that same commitment to our team members by offering a comprehensive benefits package that begins on day one, additional benefits include:

• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Coverage
• Identity Theft Protection
• Adoption Assistance

Thank you for expressing interest in employment with Sodexo Live!. While only those candidates considered for this position will be contacted, your resume will remain on file for 90 days.

Sodexo Live! is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.