Executive Chef I

Job Description

Job Description

Job Listing: Executive Chef I

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 Executive Chef I for the for the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex, the Protective Football Stadium and the Legacy Arena located in Birmingham, AL.

The Convention Center Complex includes 220,000sqft Exhibition Hall, 100,000sqft in 74 Meeting rooms, 3,000 Seat Concert Hall, 1,000 Seat Theatre, a brand new 45,000 seat Football Stadium that features 36 suites and a 1,200-person club area. This stadium is home to UAB Football as well as other sporting events and concerts. The property also contains the Legacy Arena. The estimated revenue is $10 to $12 million a year.

With over $300M invested into these facilities they host Major Concerts, NCAA Basketball, and the 2022 World Games. Some stadium facts below.

Protective Football Stadium : Type of Events- 5 UAB football games, Birmingham Bowl plus other Events. 36 Suites, 1,700 person club, 47,000 capacity, 17 Concession Stands.

Legacy Arena : Type of Events- G-League Basketball, Concerts, College Basketball. 18,000 seat capacity. 12 suites, 2 Clubs, and 9 Concession Stands.

Job Overview :

As an Executive Chef I, you'll be the culinary leader behind unforgettable guest experiences. You'll oversee kitchen operations, drive innovation in menu development, and ensure excellence in food quality, safety, and presentation. This role is ideal for a hands-on chef with strong leadership skills and a passion for hospitality.

Essential Responsibilities :

• Manage daily food production, including planning, preparation, and execution across multiple outlets and event spaces.
• Supervise and mentor sous chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff to foster a collaborative and high-performing team.
• Create seasonal, event-specific, and client-driven menus that reflect creativity, sustainability, and local flavors.
• Ensure adherence to Sodexo Culinary Standards, including recipe compliance, food safety, and sanitation protocols.
• Monitor food and labor costs, manage inventory, and implement strategies to reduce waste and optimize efficiency.
• Collaborate with venue partners and Sodexo Live! leadership to align culinary offerings with brand and guest expectations.
• Conduct ongoing training in culinary techniques, safety standards, and operational procedures.

Qualifications/Skills :

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in high-volume or premium hospitality settings.
• Experience in menu development, cost control, and kitchen operations.
• Ability to adapt to guest preferences, dietary needs, and emerging food trends.
• Strong plating and presentation skills for upscale dining or event catering.
• Skilled in team building, conflict resolution, and performance management.
• In depth knowledge of culinary techniques, food safety regulations, and kitchen equipment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.

Other Requirements :

• Able to work effectively and safely while subject to wet floors, temperature extremes and excessive noise; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds in weight; must be able to maneuver in an often tightly-quartered environment.
• 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.