Catering Manager 3

Role Overview:

Sodexo is seeking a  Catering Manager 3 at Arkansas State University, located in Jonesboro, AR . Our Catering Manager Leads the operations of Arkansas State University's campus-wide catering program in Jonesboro - a growing regional hub in Northeast Arkansas known for its strong healthcare sector, vibrant small-business community, and easy access to outdoor recreation. This role oversees all aspects of event planning and execution for functions ranging from departmental meetings to major university ceremonies, donor events, athletic hospitality, and large student gatherings. Responsibilities include menu coordination, staffing and training, budgeting, inventory oversight, client relations, and ensuring high standards of food quality, service, and regulatory compliance. Operating in a fast‑paced, customer‑focused environment, the catering unit supports the university’s academic, cultural, and community initiatives by delivering reliable, high‑quality event experiences across campus.

Sodexo provides college campuses with food, nutrition, environmental, and facilities management solutions. Joining us at one of our campus sites enables you to positively influence college students' well-being and create a healthy learning environment.

What You'll Do:

• identify customer needs and expectations  
• ensure that Sodexo and customer goals are aligned and met  
• educate and develop rapport with clients and promote partnerships  
• promote a customer/client centered culture that strives to exceed customer and client needs
• coordinate all unit catering initiatives to drive sales growth and track results
• maintain and improve service level resulting in increased customer satisfaction 

• ensure all HAACP standards are followed
• demonstrate resourcefulness and quick responsiveness to client and customer requests 

What We Offer:

Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

 

• 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

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.

What You Bring:

• solid organizational skills
• excellent leadership/team building skills
• the ability to handle catering at all levels from students to executives
• professional demeanor is required

Who We Are:

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.

 

Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering 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. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form .

Qualifications & Requirements:

Minimum Education Requirement - Associate's Degree or equivalent experience
Minimum Management Experience - 2 years
Minimum Functional Experience – 1 year work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.