Canteen Chief - Topeka KS

The Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) is a distinguished organization with a proud history spanning over 78 years, dedicated to serving the nation's Veterans. Operating within the Department of Veterans Affairs, VCS provides retail services aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Veterans and their families across various VA Medical Centers. With a robust commitment to operational excellence, VCS specializes in managing canteens that deliver quality goods and services directly to Veterans, supporting their needs and honoring their contributions to the country.

Established as a fast-paced, mission-driven operation, VCS is seeking a General Manager for the Topeka, KS, VA Medical Center Canteen. This is a full-time, permanent position offering a salary of $56,796 per year with a pay grade of VC 11. The General Manager will play a pivotal role in leading the canteen to success by aligning operational strategies with the broader organizational mission of serving Veterans. This role requires overseeing multi-unit operations, ensuring financial targets such as Net Operating Income (NOI) and Gross Margin are met, and managing inventory and employee relations. The position is not eligible for telework or relocation expenses and demands occasional travel.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate passion for Veterans and their families, possess prior multi-unit management experience, and have a deep commitment to organizational efficiency and compliance with health and safety standards. The General Manager will be responsible for operational excellence through strategic planning and execution, talent recruitment and development, and maintaining compliance with retail point-of-sale systems and sanitation protocols. A key aspect of the role involves training staff in compliance standards and facilitating technology and internal communications to streamline canteen operations.

This position also plays a crucial role in enhancing the customer experience by implementing best practices that ensure consistent, high-quality service to Veterans, their families, and caregivers. Success in this role hinges on the ability to build strong relationships with key stakeholders including Medical Center leadership and federal departments while utilizing Microsoft Office Suite and other technology platforms efficiently.

Candidates must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or those owing allegiance to the U.S., with preference given to Veterans or spouses, widows, widowers, or parents of Veterans who qualify for derived preference. A trial period of one year will be required, during which employment fitness and alignment with public interest will be evaluated. Educational qualifications include a minimum of a high school diploma or GED, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality, Retail Management, or related fields. Experience with VCS or comparable management is essential.

Additionally, the candidate should embody a commitment to improving federal government efficiency, support American republic ideals, and uphold the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution. This role offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to a noble cause, combining leadership, operational management, and dedication to those who have served the nation. Applicants will undergo a thorough evaluation process and are encouraged to apply online by June 22, 2026.