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- Tasks: Lead culinary standards and innovation for Chipotle across Europe, ensuring quality and consistency.
- Company: Chipotle is a leader in fast-casual dining, committed to sustainable and responsible food sourcing.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven company shaping the future of food with integrity and innovation.
- Qualifications: Culinary degree required; 10+ years of experience in culinary leadership and multi-unit operations preferred.
- Other info: Position based in London with a 5-day in-person work week and 30-40% travel.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
CULTIVATE A BETTER WORLD. Food served fast does not have to be a typical fast-food experience. Chipotle has always done things differently, both in and out of our restaurants. We are changing the face of fast food, starting conversations, and directly supporting efforts to shift the future of farming and food. We hope you will join us as we continue to learn, evolve, and shape what comes next on our mission to make better food accessible to everyone.
THE OPPORTUNITY. As the Director, European Culinary for Chipotle Europe you will oversee Chipotle Culinary and its alignment with our Global Culinary Standards which includes oversight of the Chipotle markets in Europe. You will partner with our international Chipotle team, strategic regional suppliers, regional operations team, and our USA based leadership team to deliver a consistent Chipotle experience globally. This is a leadership role involving fluency in culinary skills, Chipotle’s culinary execution, and Chipotle’s Food with Integrity (FWI) ethos. The ability to partner strategically with suppliers to match our commercialized products and understanding large scale production is vital. An understanding of Food Safety, Quality Assurance, and Commercialization protocols is also essential.
You will partner with the regional operations teams to ensure restaurant culinary recipes and standards in local markets are maintained and meet the aligned-on Global Culinary Standard. You will also lead regional culinary and menu work required to support local menu adjustments by leveraging a combination of local and market consumer insights. Developing and implementing processes and protocols to drive consistency in our proprietary products, food quality, and our in-restaurant execution will be essential. This role reports directly into the Vice President for Chipotle Culinary and will partner with the leadership team in Europe to ensure we are championing Chipotle’s Food with Integrity (FWI) mission across the globe.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
- Maintain Global Culinary Standards: Develop and execute a comprehensive Global Culinary Standards strategy aligned with Chipotle’s objectives of delivering a consistent culinary experience. This will account for strategic suppliers, regional operations, marketing, food safety, and quality assurance stakeholders.
- Strategic Supplier Partnerships: Partner closely with the international supply chain team and strategic suppliers to ensure core menu ingredients meet our global culinary FWI standards.
- Restaurant Operations Support: Partner with the Operations Services team to drive culinary capability and brand standards internationally.
- Teach & Taste Chipotle: Be an expert in Chipotle’s FWI mission and our Real food proposition.
- Kitchen Innovation and Procurement: Partner with the global business on culinary process and equipment innovation initiatives.
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Operationalize culinary innovation and change via effective collaboration with various teams.
- Consumer Testing and Validation: Partner with the regional marketing and consumer insights team to develop and implement a consumer testing protocol.
- Budgeting and Cost Control: Manage culinary budgets, monitor costs, and identify opportunities for cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or guest experience.
WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO THE TABLE:
- A Passion for Exceptional People, Exceptional Food, and Cultivating a Better World.
- Dynamic leader with proven track record of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Culinary Arts Degree/Certification required.
- 10+ years of progressive culinary experience, including international exposure and leadership roles.
- Strong understanding of food science, food safety, and quality assurance standards.
- Proven track record in menu development, culinary innovation, and successful implementation of culinary strategies.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong business acumen, with experience in budgeting, cost control, and financial analysis.
- Travel subject to business needs. Approximately 30-40% travel domestic and international.
- Ability to cook and work fluently in BOH operations.
WHO WE ARE. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Chipotle has over 3,250 restaurants in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany and is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants in North America and Europe.
Director, European Culinary employer: Chipotle Mexican Grill
Contact Detail:
Chipotle Mexican Grill Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, European Culinary
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Chipotle's Food with Integrity ethos. Understanding their commitment to sourcing responsibly and serving real food will help you align your vision with theirs during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the culinary field, especially those with experience in multi-unit operations across Europe. Building relationships can provide insights into the role and may lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends in culinary innovation and food safety regulations in Europe. Being knowledgeable about these topics will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with large-scale production and supplier partnerships. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully implemented culinary strategies in previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, European Culinary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant culinary experience, leadership roles, and any international exposure. Emphasise your understanding of food safety, quality assurance, and culinary innovation, as these are key aspects of the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for Chipotle's mission and how your values align with their Food with Integrity ethos. Provide specific examples of your past achievements in culinary management and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Culinary Expertise: Include details about your culinary arts degree and any certifications you hold. Highlight your experience in menu development, large-scale production, and your ability to collaborate with suppliers and operations teams.
Prepare for Interviews: If selected for an interview, be ready to discuss your strategic approach to culinary standards and supplier partnerships. Prepare to share insights on how you would implement Chipotle’s culinary strategies across European markets.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chipotle Mexican Grill
✨Showcase Your Culinary Expertise
As a candidate for the Director, European Culinary position, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of culinary arts and food safety standards. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in menu development and how you've successfully implemented culinary strategies in multi-unit operations.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
This role requires strong collaboration with various teams, including operations, marketing, and suppliers. Highlight your experience in cross-functional teamwork and provide examples of how you've fostered relationships to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Given the emphasis on strategic supplier partnerships and culinary innovation, be ready to discuss your approach to sourcing ingredients and managing supplier relationships. Share insights on how you’ve navigated challenges in large-scale production and commercialisation.
✨Demonstrate Passion for Food with Integrity
Chipotle's mission revolves around 'Food with Integrity'. Make sure to convey your passion for sustainable practices and how you've incorporated this ethos into your culinary work. Discuss any initiatives you've led that align with this philosophy.
