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Executive Catering Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Executive Catering Chef

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Executive Catering Chef Salary: 100,000-116,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding service!

Executive Catering Chef

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Executive Catering Chef Salary: 100,000-116,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding service!

Executive Catering Chef

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Executive Catering Chef Salary: 100,000-116,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding service!

Executive Catering Chef

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Executive Catering Chef Salary: 100,000-116,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding service!

Executive Catering Chef

Raleigh, NC

$69K - $95K/yr

Posting Information Posting Number PG194751EP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Executive Catering Chef Anticipated Hiring Range $81,000 - $84,327 Work Schedule Hours are variable based on ...

Salary: $100K to $150k Based on Experience EXECUTIVE CATERING CHEF FULL TIME Department: Domenico Catering & Events Team Reports to: Owners Position Overview Are you a visionary leader with a passion ...

This Executive Chef will manage a high-volume catering operation on campus. Sodexo provides college campuses with food, nutrition, environmental, and facilities management solutions. Joining us at ...

Executive Catering Chef 2

Brookings, SD · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

This Executive Chef will manage a high-volume catering operation on campus. Sodexo provides college campuses with food, nutrition, environmental, and facilities management solutions. Joining us at ...

Executive Catering Chef

Louisville, KY · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer service and food ... Oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrates ...

Executive Catering Chef

Louisville, KY

$63K - $87K/yr

We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer service and food ... Oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrates ...

Executive Catering Chef

Louisville, KY · On-site

$63K - $87K/yr

We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer service and food ... Oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrates ...

Executive Catering Chef 2

Brookings, SD · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

This Executive Chef will manage a high-volume catering operation on campus. Sodexo provides college campuses with food, nutrition, environmental, and facilities management solutions. Joining us at ...

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Executive Catering Chef information

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$40K

$86.9K

$130K

How much do executive catering chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive catering chef in the United States is $86,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does Gordon Ramsay pay his executive chef?

Gordon Ramsay's executive chefs typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific restaurant or establishment. Compensation may also include bonuses, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement within his restaurant group.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Executive Catering Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Catering Chef, you need advanced culinary skills, menu planning expertise, and several years of experience in large-scale food preparation, typically supported by a culinary degree or certification. Proficiency with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is essential. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and creativity are vital soft skills for managing diverse teams and adapting to client needs. These skills and qualities ensure the delivery of high-quality cuisine and seamless event execution in a demanding catering environment.

What does an Executive Catering Chef do?

An Executive Catering Chef is responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing all culinary operations for catered events. This includes designing menus, sourcing ingredients, managing kitchen staff, and ensuring food quality and safety standards are met. They also work closely with clients to tailor menus to event themes and dietary needs, and often supervise food presentation and service at the event itself. Their role is essential to creating memorable culinary experiences for guests at weddings, corporate functions, and other special occasions.

What is the difference between Executive Catering Chef vs Executive Chef?

AspectExecutive Catering ChefExecutive Chef
CredentialsCulinary degree, culinary certifications, extensive experience in cateringCulinary degree, certifications, broad culinary management experience
Work EnvironmentEvent venues, catering companies, large-scale catering operationsRestaurants, hotels, resorts, culinary establishments
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in catering and event planning industriesIn hospitality, restaurant, and hotel industries

The main difference is that an Executive Catering Chef specializes in managing large-scale catering events, focusing on event-specific menus and logistics. An Executive Chef oversees overall kitchen operations, menu development, and staff management across various dining settings. Both roles require culinary expertise and leadership skills, but their work environments and primary responsibilities differ.

Can you make 100k a year as a chef?

An executive catering chef can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, high-end clients, and in regions with higher living costs. Achieving this salary often requires strong culinary skills, management experience, and the ability to oversee large-scale events or kitchens. Salaries vary based on location, employer, and individual credentials.

How much does an executive chef get paid?

An executive catering chef typically earns between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the establishment. They often oversee kitchen operations, menu planning, and staff management, requiring strong culinary skills and leadership abilities.

How does an Executive Catering Chef typically collaborate with event planners and clients to create customized menus?

An Executive Catering Chef works closely with event planners and clients to understand the unique requirements, themes, and dietary needs of each event. This often involves initial consultations to discuss preferences, followed by menu tastings and adjustments based on feedback. The chef must coordinate with both the culinary team and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth execution, while also managing logistics like ingredient sourcing and event timelines. Strong communication and flexibility are key to delivering a memorable culinary experience that aligns with the client's vision.

What is the hourly rate for an executive chef?

The hourly rate for an executive catering chef typically ranges from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the size of the establishment. Many executive chefs are salaried, but those working hourly may also receive overtime pay for extra hours worked.
More about Executive Catering Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Executive Catering Chef jobs? Cities with the most Executive Catering Chef job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Catering Chef jobs? The most popular types of Catering Chef jobs are:
What states have the most Executive Catering Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Executive Catering Chef jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Executive Catering Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Executive Catering Chef jobs are:
Infographic showing various Executive Catering Chef job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,886 per year, or $41.8 per hour.
Executive Catering Chef

Executive Catering Chef

Compass Group

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,075 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

313th of 451 rated business services


Job description

Position Title: Executive Catering Chef 

Salary:  100,000-116,000

Other Forms of Compensation:  

Our Passion is Food!
At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding service! At Bon Appetit you won't find our managers referring to a corporate recipe book or our chefs microwaving the lunch special. We do not have standardized recipes or central commissaries, instead, our chefs and managers are expected to stay abreast of current culinary trends and bring cutting edge food into their cafes. We are a restaurant company that operates in contract food service. That means you will have the freedom to be creative, take risks, and truly shine. We are committed to our staff growing, trying new things, and learning all that they can. Our rapid growth and breadth of accounts translates into exciting opportunities for our people!

Job Summary

The Events & Catering Chef is responsible for leading the culinary vision, execution, and operational success of the catering and events program within a corporate dining environment. This role combines culinary innovation, client engagement, operational leadership, and team development to deliver exceptional hospitality experiences. The Events & Catering Chef serves as a strategic partner to clients and internal stakeholders, translating business objectives and event goals into memorable culinary experiences while ensuring operational excellence, financial stewardship, and scalability. 

The ideal candidate is a dynamic hospitality professional with a passion for culinary creativity, exceptional guest experiences, and building high-performing teams. 

Key Responsibilities

The following represents the primary duties and responsibilities of this position. Other duties may be assigned as needed. 

Culinary Innovation & Program Development 

Develop innovative menus, event concepts, and culinary experiences that align with client expectations and company standards.  

Stay informed on emerging culinary trends, ingredients, techniques, and hospitality best practices.  

Balance creativity with operational feasibility, labor requirements, budget expectations, and scalability.  

Design offerings suitable for a variety of event formats, including executive meetings, receptions, conferences, employee activations, and large-scale special events.  

Continuously evaluate and enhance the catering program to drive guest satisfaction and engagement.  

Event Operations & Execution 

Lead all culinary aspects of catering and event execution from planning through service delivery.  

Oversee food production, event logistics, staffing plans, and operational readiness.  

Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, timing, and service standards.  

Evaluate operational processes to improve efficiency, scalability, and overall guest experience.  

Maintain exceptional attention to detail while managing multiple concurrent events and priorities.  

Client Relations & Hospitality Leadership 

Serve as a key ambassador for the catering program and primary culinary contact for clients and stakeholders.  

Build and maintain strong client relationships through proactive communication and partnership.  

Consult with clients to understand event objectives and create customized culinary solutions.  

Participate in tastings, presentations, site visits, and client meetings.  

Maintain a visible presence during events to ensure successful execution and guest satisfaction.  

Leadership & Team Development 

Lead, mentor, and develop culinary team members through coaching, training, and performance management.  

Foster a culture of hospitality, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.  

Promote collaboration between culinary, operations, and hospitality teams.  

Support workforce planning, recruitment, onboarding, and succession development efforts.  

Encourage creativity and professional growth across the culinary team.  

Financial & Administrative Management 

Manage catering food costs, labor expenses, and event profitability goals.  

Support forecasting, budgeting, purchasing, and inventory management activities.  

Maintain accurate event documentation, production schedules, staffing plans, and operational reports.  

Ensure timely communication and coordination across all stakeholders.  

Monitor operational performance metrics and identify opportunities for improvement.  

Food Safety & Compliance 

Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, allergen, and workplace safety standards.  

Maintain adherence to company policies, HACCP guidelines, and local regulatory requirements.  

Lead corrective action efforts and support audit readiness activities.  

Qualifications

Associate degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.  

5+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience.  

3+ years of catering, events, banquet, or hospitality management experience.  

Experience managing high-volume catering operations and complex event execution.  

Demonstrated success leading culinary teams in a hospitality-driven environment.  

Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and allergen management practices.  

Experience managing labor, food cost controls, and operational budgets.  

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and catering/event management systems.  

ServSafe Manager Certification or equivalent food safety certification.  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field.  

Corporate dining, luxury hospitality, conference center, or large-scale catering experience.  

Certified Executive Chef (CEC) or other professional culinary certification.  

Experience supporting executive-level events and VIP hospitality programs.  

Experience developing innovative food programs and culinary activations.  

Strong understanding of event planning, hospitality design, and guest experience strategies. 

Apply to Bon Appetit today!

Bon Appetit is a member of Compass Group USA.

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

Associates at Bon Appetit 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 or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_BAMCO.pdf

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. 

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Bon Appetit maintains a drug-free workplace.

Req ID:  1539238

Bon Appetit 

BRYAN GONI 


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