Food Service Operations Director

Mesa, AZ, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

leadership development programs

Career advancement opportunities

training programs

employee incentives

Job Description

Aramark is a global leader in food and facilities management services, known for its commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences across numerous industries including education, healthcare, business, and sports and entertainment. Operating in over 15 countries, Aramark serves millions of clients daily, emphasizing sustainability, inclusivity, and professional growth for its employees. The company fosters an equitable work environment and promotes diversity, dedicating itself to ethical business practices and community engagement. Aramark is recognized not only for its wide-reaching service solutions but also for cultivating meaningful impact among its workforce and partners, making it a desirable place for talent to grow and thrive.

The Food Service Operations Director role at Aramark is vital in leading the operational management and strategic execution of dining services. This position focuses on devising and implementing dining solutions that meet customer needs and enhance the overall dining experience. The director oversees multiple dining facilities where meals are prepared and served according to set menus, ensuring consistency in service quality and operational efficiency. This leadership role is responsible for managing teams by providing guidance, support, and mentorship to increase employee engagement and performance. It involves strategic financial oversight, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost management for food, labor, and beverages, ensuring profitability and alignment with corporate standards.

The role also requires the director to maintain compliance with safety and sanitation standards to protect both employees and customers. They build strong relationships with clients, communicate operational improvements, and contribute to contract negotiations and sales efforts when applicable. On the operational side, the director ensures smooth coordination of food production, distribution, and service while continuously exploring opportunities for menu innovation and sustainability initiatives aligned with the client’s mission. The position demands collaboration across departments to deliver a unified food service operation, emphasizing operational excellence and customer satisfaction. Candidates need to have a blend of hands-on experience in food service management, leadership capability, and strategic acumen to drive business growth and operational success. This full-time role offers a dynamic environment where the director can influence every stage of dining service operations, from workforce management to financial performance and client interaction.

Job Requirements

Minimum of four years previous experience
1-3 years experience in a management role
Prior experience in the food service industry
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent expertise
Strong communication skills
Ability to nurture and maintain client and customer relationships
Willingness to handle, carry, shove, and tug objects up to 50 lbs
Must be willing to stand continuously for extended periods

Job Qualifications

Minimum of four years previous experience
1-3 years experience in a management role
Prior experience in the food service industry
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent expertise
Strong communication skills
Ability to nurture and maintain client and customer relationships
Proficient in superior customer service aligned with Aramark standards
Skilled in collaborating across departments to unify food service delivery
Willingness to stand for extended periods
Capable of handling physical tasks involving up to 50 lbs

Job Duties

Manage, support, collaborate with, and advance teams including hiring, evaluating, educating, mentoring, and overseeing performance
Guarantee that food service operations align with the executional strategy
Support teams through coaching to understand objectives and approaches
Provide incentives to encourage employee dedication
Ensure safety and sanitation standards are maintained across all processes
Recognize client needs and communicate operational updates effectively
Implement operational strategies and oversee fiscal frameworks including cost management for food, beverages, and labor
Generate and monitor P&L statements consistently
Maintain quality and control costs within budget
Implement and uphold workforce and food programs
Increase value by streamlining operations, controlling costs, and managing profits
Ensure compliance with operational excellence principles related to food and labor management
Manage manufacturing, distribution, and food provision processes
Foster a safe and supportive environment adhering to safety, health, and work hour regulations
Construct and sustain mechanisms for food selection, acquisition, storage, cooking, serving, and menu enhancement
Generate operational forecasts and address discrepancies
Oversee accounting functions related to food components
Conduct periodic stock assessments
Maintain records to comply with ARAMARK, governmental, and accrediting agency requirements
Engage with client decision-makers to strengthen relationships at all levels
Participate in sales processes and contract discussions when necessary
Explore new products and services to grow sales and retain customers
Handle front-end dining operations
Develop and execute food service plans aligned with client values and sustainability goals