Chef Manager

Job Description

UVA Dine is seeking a dynamic and experienced Chef Manager to join our culinary leadership team, specifically supporting Athletic Dining and Catering operations at John Paul Jones Arena on the University of Virginia grounds. This full-time position will work collaboratively with our current Chef Manager to oversee all culinary aspects of daily athletic meals and diverse catered events. The Chef Manager will be responsible for ensuring exceptional food quality, presentation, and safety, while leading and developing a talented culinary team in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

Job Responsibilities

• Culinary Leadership & Operations:

  • Oversee and manage all culinary operations for athletic dining and catering events at John Paul Jones Arena, ensuring consistent execution of menus and recipes.

  • Collaborate with the other Chef Manager to plan, develop, and execute innovative menus that meet the dietary needs of student-athletes and exceed client expectations for catered events.

  • Ensure all food is prepared to the highest standards of taste, quality, and presentation.

  • Manage food production schedules, inventory levels, and ordering to minimize waste and control food costs.

  • Oversee the proper operation and maintenance of all kitchen equipment.

• Team Management & Development:

  • Lead, train, mentor, and supervise kitchen staff, including cooks and utility workers, fostering a positive and productive work environment.

  • Conduct daily briefings, provide ongoing coaching, and conduct performance evaluations for culinary team members.

  • Ensure staff adherence to all culinary standards, safety protocols, and company policies.

• Food Safety & Sanitation:

  • Maintain impeccable standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety throughout all kitchen and service areas, strictly adhering to HACCP principles and all health regulations.

  • Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with all sanitation standards.

• Client & Stakeholder Relations:

  • Work closely with the Athletic Department, coaches, and catering clients to understand their needs and ensure culinary offerings align with their requirements.

  • Address any culinary-related feedback or concerns from clients and guests promptly and professionally.

• Administrative & Financial:

  • Assist in managing kitchen labor costs, scheduling, and other operational expenses to meet budgetary goals.

  • Complete necessary administrative tasks, including production reports, inventory logs, and other documentation.

  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the culinary department.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent. Culinary degree or certification from an accredited institution is highly preferred.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role, preferably in a high-volume catering, banquet, athletic dining, or institutional food service setting.

• Proven expertise in various culinary techniques, cooking methods, and menu development.

• Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.

• Excellent leadership, communication (verbal and written), and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and adapt to changing demands in a fast-paced environment.

• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite) and culinary management software.

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as dictated by athletic schedules and catering events.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8+ hours).

• Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds frequently.

• Ability to work in a kitchen environment, which may include exposure to hot, cold, and wet conditions, as well as noise.

• Manual dexterity for precise food preparation tasks.

• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and climb as needed.

Education

About Aramark

Our Mission

Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.

At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

About Aramark

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at or connect with us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter .