The Certified Executive Chef® (CEC®) credential is a prestigious designation bestowed by the American Culinary Federation (ACF) to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional culinary expertise and leadership abilities. This certification signifies a chef’s mastery of advanced culinary techniques, food safety and sanitation practices, supervisory management, and cost control.
Key Facts
- You must have at least five years of experience as a chef de cuisine, executive sous chef, or chef in charge of food production in a foodservice operation. This experience should include supervising at least five full-time people in food preparation. The experience must be within the past ten years.
Education Options:
- High School Diploma/GED plus 150 Continuing Education Hours (CEH)
- 250 Continuing Education Hours (CEH)
- Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts
- ACFEF Apprenticeship Program.
Mandatory Courses:
- You need to complete the following 30-hour courses:
- Nutrition
- Food Safety & Sanitation
- Supervisory Management
- Beverage Management
- Cost Control Management.
Application Process:
- There are three steps in the application process:
- Initial Application: Submit the initial application with proof of education, completed courses, and work experience. Allow 2-3 weeks for processing.
- Schedule Written & Practical Exams: Upon approval of the initial application, you can schedule the written and practical exams.
- Final Application: After successfully completing the exams, submit the final application with exam pass sheets and the application fee. Allow 2-3 weeks for processing. Once approved, your certificate will be mailed to you.
Recertification:
- CEC certification requires renewal every five years.
Fees:
- The certification fee for members is $250, while non-members pay $490.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for CEC certification, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a minimum of five years of experience as a chef de cuisine, executive sous chef, or chef in charge of food production in a foodservice operation.
- Have supervised at least five full-time employees in food preparation within the past ten years.
Education Requirements
Candidates must also fulfill one of the following education requirements:
- High School Diploma/GED with 150 Continuing Education Hours (CEH)
- 250 CEH
- Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts
- Completion of the ACFEF Apprenticeship Program
Mandatory Courses
In addition to the education requirement, candidates must complete the following 30-hour courses:
- Nutrition
- Food Safety & Sanitation
- Supervisory Management
- Beverage Management
- Cost Control Management
Courses completed more than five years prior to application, except for Beverage Management and Cost Control Management, require an 8-hour refresher.
Application Process
The CEC certification application process consists of three steps:
- Initial ApplicationSubmit an initial application with proof of education, completed courses, and work experience. Allow 2-3 weeks for processing.
- Exam SchedulingUpon approval of the initial application, schedule written and practical exams.
- Final ApplicationAfter passing the exams, submit a final application with exam pass sheets and the application fee. Allow 2-3 weeks for processing.
Recertification
CEC certification requires renewal every five years.
Fees
The certification fee for ACF members is $250, while non-members pay $490.
Conclusion
Obtaining CEC certification is a testament to a chef’s dedication to culinary excellence and professional development. By meeting the rigorous eligibility requirements, completing the mandatory coursework, and passing the exams, candidates demonstrate their commitment to the highest standards of culinary practice.
Sources
- ACF Certified Executive Chef® (CEC®) – Credly
- Certified Executive Chef
- Manufacturer Certification for Building Equipment
FAQs
What are the eligibility requirements for CEC certification?
To be eligible for CEC certification, candidates must have at least five years of experience as a chef de cuisine, executive sous chef, or chef in charge of food production in a foodservice operation, and must have supervised at least five full-time employees in food preparation within the past ten years.
What are the education requirements for CEC certification?
Candidates must meet one of the following education requirements:
- High School Diploma/GED with 150 Continuing Education Hours (CEH)
- 250 CEH
- Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts
- Completion of the ACFEF Apprenticeship Program
What are the mandatory courses for CEC certification?
Candidates must complete the following 30-hour courses:
- Nutrition
- Food Safety & Sanitation
- Supervisory Management
- Beverage Management
- Cost Control Management
What is the application process for CEC certification?
The CEC certification application process consists of three steps:
- Initial Application: Submit an initial application with proof of education, completed courses, and work experience. Allow 2-3 weeks for processing.
- Exam Scheduling: Upon approval of the initial application, schedule written and practical exams.
- Final Application: After passing the exams, submit a final application with exam pass sheets and the application fee. Allow 2-3 weeks for processing.
How much does CEC certification cost?
The certification fee for ACF members is $250, while non-members pay $490.
How long is CEC certification valid for?
CEC certification is valid for five years and requires renewal thereafter.
What are the benefits of CEC certification?
CEC certification demonstrates a chef’s commitment to culinary excellence and professional development. It can enhance career opportunities, increase earning potential, and provide recognition for culinary expertise.
Who should consider obtaining CEC certification?
CEC certification is ideal for chefs who aspire to leadership roles in the culinary industry and who are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of culinary practice.