Food Services Manager - Higher Ed. jobs in Tennessee

As a DISTRICT MANAGER with Chartwells Higher Ed, you will provide strategic leadership and direction to a cross-functional team, ensuring the achievement of operational and financial objectives while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. You will cultivate strong client relationships, champion diversity, and foster a culture of excellence within your territory (TENNESSEE, must reside locally) as well as any other states assigned.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and empower a team of Resident District Managers and/or Directors of Dining Services, fostering collaboration and excellence in service delivery.

Client Relationship Management: Develop and maintain positive relationships with clients, driving critical metrics such as profitability, safety, and engagement. Serve as a brand ambassador, attending client and community engagement events.

Strategic Planning: Drive business growth and development within the territory, making decisions that balance risk/reward and align with long-term objectives. Collaborate with regional leadership to set cultural tone and ensure accountability.

Operational Oversight: Ensure compliance with regional, state, and local regulations governing meal and retail programs, safety standards, and quality assurance. Conduct audits and implement solutions for continuous improvement.

Financial Management: Own P&L responsibilities for districts within the territory, collaborating with senior leadership on reporting, forecasting, and budgeting. Drive financial performance and accuracy in reporting.

Sales Support: Collaborate with Sales and Retention teams on sales proforma and proposal development, participating in the full sales and retention process to drive revenue growth.

People Development: Champion development initiatives, including performance evaluations, succession planning, and skills development. Support team members with tools and resources to enhance operational efficiency.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

* Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, or five (5) years progressive experience in multi-unit food service in Campus/University dining.
* Strong leadership experience with exposure to contract/budget management, customer service, and people development.
* Proficiency in strategic thinking, analytics, and financial management.
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
* Demonstrated success in growing business and driving financial performance.
* Expertise in client relationship management and negotiation.
* Proactive and resilient attitude with a commitment to inclusivity and professionalism.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Suite.
* Willingness to travel extensively.