Assoc Dir of Culinary R&D

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT THE ROLE

We’re looking for a dynamic, high-energy Associate Director of Culinary to support our culinary innovation and client success. In this role, you’ll be a creative culinary leader and a key collaborator—crafting dishes and concepts that wow clients while supporting lasting relationships. You’ll manage and mentor members of the R&D culinary team, oversee assigned client accounts, and work closely with the Director and VP of Culinary Services to deliver exceptional results and contribute to business growth.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Sales & Management

• Manage and mentor assigned R&D chefs and/or managers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment
• Maintain positive, productive relationships with assigned clients and support team accounts.
• Review and approve concepts, recipes, documents, and client communications for assigned projects.
• Provide training, guidance, and professional development for team members.
• Participate in and, when assigned, lead client presentations and interactions—supporting menu placements on behalf of manufacturer clients.
• Support the cultivation of relationships with key accounts, manufacturers, and industry partners to identify potential new opportunities.
• Maintain ongoing consultative services to ensure client satisfaction.
• Collaborate with leadership to identify additional CSSI marketing or culinary business opportunities.
• Assist in resolving client and team challenges to achieve positive outcomes.
• Provide regular updates and progress reports to the Director and VP of Culinary Services.

Culinary R&D

• Contribute to all culinary aspects of projects, from concept creation and trend research to product development and final specifications.
• Research and apply emerging culinary, consumer, and restaurant trends in assigned work.
• Assist in managing specialized initiatives, including culinary center activities and new product development.
• Test and recommend new methods, ingredients, and menu applications for both new and existing products
• Maintain affiliations with culinary institutes, restaurants, and industry associations.
• Follow all food safety protocols and procedures.

SKILLLS/QUALIFICATIONS

• Degree from a nationally recognized culinary school.
• 7+ years in progressive culinary roles—R&D, sales, or corporate settings.
• Proven leadership and mentoring skills.
• Strong relationship-building and communication abilities.
• Experience in restaurant operations, manufacturing, and food safety.
• Highly organized self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.