Chad is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. His professional background includes food and beverage operations, kitchen design, and purchasing. His manufacturing expertise is in dairy, protein, and flavors.With his current role, Chad is a valuable resource for Cargill’s retail and food service customers, providing an enthusiasm for food and learning, technical ability, and a deep knowledge of ingredients.Chef’s work is fresh and creative, but always reflecting the customer’s needs. In addition to recipe and menu ideations, he provides a culinary perspective on product development and current trends. His experience in kitchen design adds a deeper understanding to the customer’s back of the house operations, while a natural eye for visual presentation adds value to all promotional material. Prior to joining Cargill, Chef Schafer consulted with top national and QSR chains and international restaurants, helping to shape culinary innovations with his expertise in flavor profiles, ingredient combinations and menu development.

Senior Development Chef for world’s largest flavor and fragrance corporation. Significant accomplishments include establishing relationships with various manufacturers and industry leaders, organization of and representation at high profile culinary events and selected as a key contact for regional RCA events. Responsibilities also include concept ideation, food preparation/presentations for existing and potential clients/investors, flavor profile collaboration with R&D and overall communication/coordination of customer needs. Category knowledge includes international cuisines, beverage, sweet goods, bakery, and savory applications. Additional accomplishments include improvement of key flavor categories and collaboration with internationally recognized Chefs.