Principal Chef, Culinary

As an innovation leader you will be responsible for driving high-impact culinary strategies breakthrough product development and strategic customer partnerships. This role serves as a subject matter expert across culinary and food manufacturing systems.

This role is on-site based out of ourChicago campus location.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Innovation Leadership

• Lead development of new product platforms and concepts
• Drive differentiated innovation aligned with market trends

2. Strategic Customer Engagement

• Partner with key accounts to influence product direction
• Lead high-level presentations and innovation sessions

3. Commercialization Expertise

• Ensure successful translation of concepts into scalable solutions
• Guide teams through complex development challenges

4. Organizational Influence

• Mentor chefs across all levels
• Contribute to innovation strategy and best practices

5. Thought Leadership

• Represent the company at industry events
• Share insights on trends and innovation

QUALIFICATIONS

• Culinary degree or equivalent experience; advanced culinary credentials a plus
• 10 years of progressive culinary and product development experience in a food manufacturing or B2B foodservice environment
• Demonstrated track record of taking innovation platforms from concept to commercial pipeline
• Proven executive-level customer engagement and presentation experience
• Strong knowledge of food systems commercialization and manufacturing constraints
• Experience representing a company externally (events media industry organizations)

Preferred:

• Experience with global food systems or international product development
• Published work speaking credits or recognized industry standing

BENEFITS

AtNWF we prioritize the well-being of our employees. We understand and appreciate that each persons needs are unique and ensure our benefits & well-being programs reflect that. Employees are eligible for the following benefits:

• Physical - Medical Prescription Drug Dental Vision
• Social - Paid Time Off Company Holidays Leave of Absence Flexible Work Arrangements Recognition Training Events
• Emotional Employee Assistance Program Wellbeing Programs Family Support Programs
• Financial 401k Employee Incentive Plan Life Accidental Death & Dismemberment Disability