Job Goal

The Culinary Director plays a pivotal role in the success of Big Chicken by overseeing all culinary aspects of our menu offerings, ensuring innovation, quality, and consistency across all locations.

They are responsible for developing and executing culinary strategies that align with the company's objectives while staying attuned to industry trends and customer preferences.

This role requires a blend of culinary expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership skills.

Key Responsibilities :

• Menu Development :
• Lead the development of new menu items, ensuring they align with brand identity, customer preferences, and profitability goals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including marketing, operations, and supply chain to bring new menu items from concept to execution.
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify opportunities for menu innovation and differentiation.
• Culinary Standards and Training :
• Establish and maintain culinary standards and procedures for food preparation, presentation, and quality control across all locations.
• Develop and implement training programs for kitchen staff to ensure consistency and adherence to culinary standards.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections to monitor compliance with food safety regulations and quality standards.
• Culinary Operations Support :
• Provide support and guidance to regional culinary teams and franchisees to ensure alignment with brand standards and culinary best practices.
• Collaborate with operations teams to streamline kitchen workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance guest experience.
• Troubleshoot culinary-related challenges and implement solutions as needed.
• Innovation and Research :
• Stay abreast of culinary trends, consumer preferences, and industry developments to inform menu development and strategic decisions.
• Experiment with new ingredients, cooking techniques, and menu concepts to drive innovation and differentiate our offerings in the market.
• Conduct consumer testing and gather feedback to refine menu items and enhance guest satisfaction.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Hospitality Management, or related field. Advanced degree or certification is a plus.
• Proven experience (7 years) in culinary leadership roles within the fast-food, QSR or Fast-Casual restaurant industry.

Experience in franchise systems is preferred.

• Strong culinary skills and creative flair, with a passion for food innovation and experimentation.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
• Proficiency in menu development, food costing, and culinary operations management.
• Sound understanding of food safety regulations and quality assurance practices.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze market trends and consumer insights.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on driving business growth and profitability.
• Ability to travel as needed to support culinary initiatives across multiple corporate, franchise and non-traditional locations.

About Us

Authentic Brands Group, a multi-national, multi-billion-dollar brand development, marketing and entertainment company; and Hall of Fame basketball star Shaquille O’Neal.

Big Chicken fuses O’Neal’s home-cooked childhood favorites with today’s trending flavors. From crispy chicken sandwiches and tenders to Cheez-It® crusted mac n’ cheese and hand-crafted ice cream shakes, each menu item tells a story all while offering guests an inside look into the life and personality of Shaquille O’Neal.

With over 40 traditional and non-traditional locations currently open and many more in the development pipeline, Big Chicken is prepped to begin aggressive U.

S. and international expansion through franchising.

To learn more about Big Chicken, visit www.bigchicken.com.

Last updated : 2024-06-20