OIC Philadelphia proudly announces the appointment of Chef Delilah Winder as the Executive Director of the organization’s Culinary Institute, where she will lead OIC’s food justice and culinary workforce training for aspiring professionals across the Philadelphia region.
Chef Winder is a nationally recognized chef, entrepreneur, and industry advocate whose distinguished career spans more than three decades in the culinary and hospitality industries. Her accomplishments include honors from the James Beard Foundation, recognition as one of Pennsylvania’s Best 50 Women in Business, national media recognition from Oprah Winfrey, and a recent appearance on the Netflix series BBQ Showdown.
A proud Philadelphian, Chef Winder brings deep experience in culinary operations, restaurant management, and workforce development. Throughout her career, she has been a passionate advocate for mentorship, entrepreneurship, and expanding opportunities for emerging talent in the hospitality industry.
In her new role, Chef Winder will oversee OIC Philadelphia’s Culinary Institute, including the Culinary Arts Training Program, industry partnerships, and experiential learning opportunities designed to prepare students for careers in restaurants, hospitality operations, catering, and our innovation in food programming.
"Chef Delilah Winder is not only an exceptional culinary talent, she is also a respected leader who understands the power of workforce training to transform lives," said Sheila Ireland, President & CEO of OIC Philadelphia. "Her experience, reputation, and deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of hospitality professionals will strengthen our Culinary Institute and expand pathways to family-sustaining careers for our students."
Chef Winder’s leadership will support OIC Philadelphia’s broader mission to prepare individuals for careers in high-demand industries while strengthening Philadelphia’s hospitality and tourism workforce. The Culinary Institute plays a critical role in connecting talent from North Philadelphia and across the region with employers seeking skilled culinary and hospitality professionals.
Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for OIC Philadelphia as the organization continues to expand career pathways in hospitality, culinary arts, and food entrepreneurship.
About OIC Philadelphia
OIC Philadelphia is an economic development organization dedicated to expanding opportunity and building pathways to prosperity for individuals and communities across Philadelphia. Founded in 1964 by civil rights leader Rev. Dr. Leon H. Sullivan, OIC was created in response to systemic barriers that excluded people of color from access to employment and economic advancement. Dr. Sullivan’s belief that “integration without preparation leads to frustration” led to the creation of a model that combines skills training with access to real economic opportunity.
Today, OIC Philadelphia carries that legacy forward by aligning workforce development with broader strategies for economic growth and community revitalization. Through sector-based training programs, employer partnerships, and community investments, OIC prepares individuals for careers in high-demand industries while helping employers build the skilled workforce needed to compete in a changing economy.
By leveraging workforce development as a driver of economic mobility, OIC Philadelphia works to ensure that growth in our regional economy translates into real opportunity, family-sustaining careers, and stronger communities.
Contact: Nadaysha Screven, Communications Office
Email: [email protected]
