Food Operations Manager 1

Role Overview Sodexo’s Campus Segment is seeking a Food Operations Manager 1 to join our team at the University of Maine at Farmington . This key leadership role supports the day‑to‑day success of campus dining operations with a strong focus on catering services, guest experience, and operational execution across all dining and hospitality venues. Relocation assistance is available. What You’ll Do Oversee and support all aspects of campus catering operations, including planning, event execution, service logistics, staffing coordination, and quality control. Lead service delivery for a wide range of campus events: meetings, conferences, athletic events, admissions functions, alumni gatherings, and special campus activities. Serve as a visible, hands‑on leader to ensure excellent guest experience, timely service, and smooth event flow. Assist with broader dining operations including retail support, residential dining coverage, staffing oversight, training, and daily operational execution. Ensure compliance with Sodexo policies, safety standards, food quality expectations, and financial targets. Build strong client relationships through proactive communication, responsiveness, and consistent service excellence. Support hiring, scheduling, coaching, and performance management for front‑of‑house and catering staff. Participate in menu planning, production meetings, and coordination with culinary and management teams. Lead operational problem solving, troubleshoot service challenges, and ensure seamless daily execution. Provide flexible coverage during evenings, weekends, holidays, orientation periods, and large campus events. What We Offer Medical, Dental, Vision Care, and Wellness Programs 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions Paid Time Off and Company Holidays Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement What You Bring Experience in catering management, food operations, or hospitality leadership, preferably in a university or high‑volume setting. Strong organizational, communication, and customer‑service skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Proven ability to lead teams, coordinate staffing, and maintain high service standards in a fast‑paced environment. A hands‑on leadership style with a willingness to support operations on the floor as needed. Ability to build positive relationships with clients, guests, student groups, and campus partners. Solid understanding of food safety, sanitation, and operational compliance standards. Flexibility to work varied schedules based on business needs, including weekends, evenings, and peak event periods. Proficiency with basic administrative tasks, event management tools, scheduling systems, and operational reporting. Minimum Requirements Associate’s Degree or equivalent experience. Minimum Management Experience: 2 years. Functional Experience: 1 year in food or culinary services (restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.). Equal Opportunity Employer Sodexo is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing LGBTQ+ inclusive and respectful workplace for all employees. Our diversity and inclusion values foster an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Sodexo USA