Lakeville, MN

Our client is seeking a Director of Culinary to play a pivotal role in shaping product development strategy and driving innovation across the business. This is a unique opportunity to bring your culinary expertise, leadership, and strategic vision to a highly visible role with direct impact on future growth. Our client values customer focus, continuous improvement, accountability, honest communication, and supportive teamwork.

About the Role

As Director of Culinary, you will partner closely with the SVP of Culinary Innovation to plan and execute breakthrough food concepts, while coordinating resources across Innovation and Design teams. You will lead culinary initiatives, collaborate with Sales to support business growth, deliver impactful client presentations, and build strong relationships with external partners.

Why This Role is Unique

• Strategic Impact: Influence the direction of product development and innovation.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work daily with Innovation & Design, Sales, Operations, Supply Chain, and Quality.
• Hands-On Creativity: Stay connected to the test kitchen, from bench work to commercialization.
• High Visibility: Represent Innovation & Design and occasionally step in for the SVP of Culinary.
• Culture of Innovation: Join a team that champions creativity, collaboration, and excellence.

Ideal Candidate

• Proven culinary expertise and innovation leadership.
• Strong business acumen and knowledge of market trends.
• The ability to lead teams, collaborate across functions, and drive results.
• A passion for creating and commercializing food concepts that delight customers.

Collaborative, innovative environment with competitive compensation. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Melissa Kern at melissa@curtisfood.com.