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 our Chicago 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

At NWF, we prioritize the well-being of our employees. We understand and appreciate that each person’s 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