Vice President, Culinary – Airline Lounges

Sodexo Live! Airport Lounges is seeking a Vice President of Culinary to lead and elevate how we design, deliver, and continuously improve the culinary experience across our airport lounges portfolio in North America.

About the role

In this senior leadership role, you will oversee the strategic direction and execution of elevated hospitality experiences across premium environments. You’ll guide culinary innovation, manage high-performing teams, and collaborate with cross-functional partners to deliver consistent excellence and brand distinction.

You will drive culinary development from concept to execution, influencing everything from menu design to production standards. The role involves collaborating with Sales, Marketing, Operations, and Innovation teams to create compelling and competitive offerings, as well as playing a key role in strategic partnerships, including participation in RFP processes and business development efforts.

You will mentor and develop top culinary talent to ensure consistent quality and operational excellence, and gain ownership of end-to-end processes, from recipe testing to supply coordination, with measurable impact on client satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Lead culinary strategy, innovation, menu development, sourcing, food quality, and financial performance across multi-unit operations.
• Drive operational excellence, talent development, guest satisfaction, and growth.
• Oversee strategic direction and execution of elevated hospitality experiences in premium environments.
• Guide culinary innovation and manage high-performing teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners to deliver consistent excellence and brand distinction.
• Participate in RFP processes and business development efforts.
• Mentor and develop culinary talent to ensure operational excellence.
• Manage end-to-end processes, from recipe testing to supply coordination.

Requirements

• Proven success leading multi-unit food service or hospitality operations at a senior or director level.
• Deep experience in menu development, culinary innovation, and end-to-end food program execution.
• Background in contract negotiation, business development, and partnership cultivation.
• Track record of building, mentoring, and scaling high-performing management and culinary teams.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to align guest experience, brand standards, and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 10 years of management experience.
• 7 years of related experience.

Pay

Pay Range: $156,230 per year - $242,550 per year. Incentive Eligibility: Eligible to participate in Sodexo's incentive plan and earn variable compensation in addition to base salary.

Benefits

• 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.