Director of Restaurant Operations

SSP America is a globally recognized leader in the food and beverage service industry, specializing in operating foodservice outlets primarily in travel locations such as airports, train stations, and motorway service areas. The company partners with some of the world's best-known food and beverage brands, delivering high-quality dining experiences to millions of customers annually. Their commitment to innovation, customer service excellence, and operational efficiency has positioned them as one of the largest and most respected foodservice providers in the travel sector.

SSP America is currently seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Operations to join their team at the Dane County Regional Airport (MSN). This full-time role offers a competitive salary range of $80,000 to $90,000 per year, along with enticing opportunities for quarterly bonuses and a year-end super bonus. The position also comes with a comprehensive benefits package and significant career progression opportunities.

As Director of Operations, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the food and beverage concessions within the airport terminal, ensuring that operational standards, financial controls, and customer satisfaction goals are met or exceeded. This leadership position demands a strategic thinker who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and who can inspire and develop a diverse team of management and hourly employees. Your responsibilities will encompass a broad spectrum of operational functions including food quality control, training program delivery, routine quality audits, cost management, and effective merchandising.

This role demands a professional with proven full-service restaurant general management experience, preferably with a history of managing multi-unit restaurant environments and airport terminal food and beverage concessions. You will be charged with driving the implementation of new product introductions and promotional programs, ensuring consistent adherence to recipes and portion control, maintaining compliance with detailed food safety standards, and leading the training of the entire management team and staff on product preparation and guest service techniques.

The Director of Operations will also be responsible for conducting internal quality assessments, managing key financial and operational metrics, developing innovative solutions in collaboration with senior leadership, and maintaining strict adherence to company policies and state health regulations. A vital part of your role will be influencing and mentoring your team through effective communication and relationship management, ensuring a productive and positive workplace culture.

Your technical skills should include a strong proficiency in computer literacy with significant experience in Microsoft Office applications and Point-of-Sale (POS) systems. You will use analytical skills to conduct gap analyses and business planning, with a focus on improving marketing effectiveness, consumer satisfaction, and employee engagement.

If you are ready to take on a challenging leadership role that combines operational management, strategic innovation, and team development within a thriving airport environment, this role at SSP America offers an excellent opportunity. With competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and supportive career growth pathways, this position is ideal for a motivated professional eager to make a significant impact in the travel food and beverage industry.