Executive Chef, Cantonese Innovation & R&D

About the Role

Sodexo is seeking a highly skilled Research & Development Cantonese Area Executive Chef to lead culinary innovation focused on authentic and modern Cantonese cuisine for a corporate services client in the New Jersey/New York tri-state area. This role is responsible for developing new menu concepts, refining existing recipes, and supporting multi-location culinary operations with consistent, high-quality Cantonese dishes. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in traditional Cantonese cooking techniques, strong leadership abilities, and a passion for innovation in a fast-paced culinary environment.

This is a Remote position; however, candidates MUST reside in or near the New Jersey/New York area. Travel is required, with up to 50% expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide culinary leadership and expertise as an Asian Market Chinese Specialist Chef in support of the Asian Markets Squad.
• Support critical customer presentations and lead new menu ideation from a culinary perspective.
• Act as a savory subject matter expert, with a strong focus on scratch cooking and flavor development.
• Lead culinary content development for assigned North American projects in collaboration with chef peers and the Head Chef.
• Accelerate Savory/Scratch Cooking growth initiatives that enhance the value of UFS brands for both existing and prospective customers.
• Partner cross-functionally with Marketing, CD Operations, Finance, and Supply Chain to align resources and support zone priorities.
• Translate selling stories, packaging, and recipes between Cantonese and English with accuracy and cultural relevance.
• Interpret and convert metric and imperial measurements for recipes and culinary materials.

What We Offer

• 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

What You Bring

• Bilingual in Cantonese and English, with clear communication of culinary and commercial concepts in both languages.
• 3+ years of culinary experience in the Foodservice Industry (Corporate or Kitchen).
• 3+ years working in Chinese kitchens in the US/Canada, specializing in Cantonese and Szechuan Cuisine.
• Solution selling mindset with creative ability to solve customer needs.
• Ability to collaborate with sales teams to hunt and farm for business.
• Understanding of restaurant distribution networks.
• Experience selling branded food categories is a plus.
• Excellent communication and follow-up skills.
• Accountability to deliver KPIs and team goals.
• Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum Management Experience: 3 Years.
• Minimum Functional Experience: 3 years.

Who We Are

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.

We embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities.

Key skills/competency

• Cantonese Cuisine
• Culinary Innovation
• Menu Development
• R&D Chef
• Foodservice
• Szechuan Cuisine
• Bilingual (Cantonese/English)
• Leadership
• Scratch Cooking
• Flavor Development