Corporate Manager – Cooking School Strategy & Innovation

H-E-B is one of the largest, independently owned food retailers in the nation operating over 420 stores throughout Texas and Mexico, with annual sales generating over $34 billion. Described by industry experts as a daring innovator and smart competitor, H-E-B has led the way with creative new concepts, outstanding service and a commitment to diversity in our workforce, workplace and marketplace. H-E-B offers a wealth of career opportunities to our 145,000 Partners (employees), competitive compensation and benefits program and comprehensive training that lead to successful careers.

Essence & Soul of the Role: As the Corporate Manager of Cooking School Strategy and Innovation, you will be the driving force behind the culinary education initiatives at our company. You will oversee the strategic direction and innovative development of our cooking school programs, ensuring they reflect current culinary trends and appeal to a diverse audience. This role requires a deep understanding of the culinary arts, exceptional organizational skills, financial acumen, and a talent for creating engaging content.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategy Development: Develop and execute the strategy for the cooking school programs nationwide, focusing on profitability and brand enhancement.
• Program Innovation: Stay ahead of culinary trends to innovate class offerings and ensure they resonate with our target demographics.
• Content Creation: Create compelling class content and materials, including recipes, instructional guides, and promotional materials.
• Partnership Management: Build and maintain relationships with chefs, culinary experts, and influencers to enhance program credibility and visibility.
• Financial Management: Manage the P&L responsibility for the cooking school division, including forecasting, budgeting, and financial analysis.
• Operational Oversight: Collaborate with cooking school managers across our stores, providing guidance and support to optimize operations.
• Marketing and Promotion: Develop marketing strategies to promote cooking classes, leveraging channels such as social media, influencers, and traditional marketing avenues.
• Educational Leadership: Lead training sessions and workshops for cooking school instructors to ensure consistent quality and innovation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in English, Culinary Arts, or a related field. A culinary degree is a plus.
• Proven experience in culinary education, culinary arts, or a related field, with extensive knowledge of global and local cuisine trends.
• Strong network within the culinary industry, particularly in Dallas and statewide, with the ability to engage local influencers and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, including writing, public speaking, and media relations.
• Experience in content creation and editing, with proficiency in managing digital platforms and social media channels.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities with a track record of successfully managing teams and driving results 

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in food cost management, class profitability analysis, and KPI-driven performance metrics.
• Familiarity with digital marketing strategies, including engagement with TikTok personalities and other influencers.
• Media experience, including press interviews, on-camera appearances, and brand representation.
• Multi-unit management skills preferred

Performance Metrics:

• KPI’s of sales, profit, labor, and contribution
• Strong strategic skills to development initiatives to reach KPIs  
• Class/content development with ROI approach
• Servant leadership
• Continuously innovate and refresh class content to maintain relevance and engagement.

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead and innovate within our culinary education programs, shaping the future of our brand's presence in the food industry. If you are passionate about food, possess a strategic mindset, and thrive in a collaborative environ

ment, we invite you to apply and join our team as we continue to inspire culinary enthusiasts.