EXECUTIVE CHEF II - WILDCAT COAL LODGE - UNIVERSITY OF KY - LEXINGTON

Job Summary

Join Compass Group North America — Be Part of a Transformational Partnership! Compass Group is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with the University of Kentucky (UK), launching July 2026—and we’re looking for talented individuals to help bring this innovative, integrated services model to life. This long-term collaboration reflects a bold vision to align and strengthen services across UK’s campus, healthcare system, and athletics programs. By bringing together foodservice, hospitality, facilities management, and healthcare support, we are building a more connected and dynamic environment that enhances the experience for students, staff, patients, and the broader community.

About the Role

We are currently seeking an Executive Chef II at the Wildcat Coall Lodge. You will be a lead culinarian within our dining programs. As a key leader in our dining programs, you'll spearhead menu development and preparation, infusing creativity, and precision into every dish. This role entails supervising budgeting and food costing, ensuring client and customer satisfaction, and fostering employee training and growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan regular and modified menus according to established guidelines, follows standardized recipes, portioning and presentation standards.
• Complete and apply daily production worksheets and waste log sheets.
• Supervise and mentor chefs, cooks, and other team members on food preparation, safe handling, equipment operation, and sanitation practices.
• Ensure the implementation of culinary standards, including recipe compliance and food quality.
• Lead inventory of food and non-food supplies, maintaining compliance with established guidelines while ensuring necessary products are available when needed.
• Enforce federal, state, and local health and sanitation regulations and department procedures.
• Forecast annual food and labor costs and supervise actual financial results.
• Foster strong client relationships to align our programs with their objectives, driving happiness and retention.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of dining service operations.

Qualifications

• A.S. degree or equivalent experience.
• Three or more years of progressive culinary or kitchen management experience, depending on formal degree or training.
• Experience in high-volume, hands-on foodservice operations.
• Must be experienced with computers.
• ServSafe® Certified.

Benefits

Chartwells Higher Education 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.

Application Instructions

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Applicants should submit their resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the position.