Director Dining Services

Director of Dining Services

Abernethy Laurels is seeking an experienced and service-oriented Director of Dining Services to lead all dining operations across our campus. This position is responsible for overseeing resident dining, employee meals, retail dining venues, and catering services while ensuring exceptional food quality, customer service, nutritional care, and regulatory compliance.

The Director of Dining Services plays a vital leadership role in enhancing the dining experience for residents and patients through innovative meal programs, quality assurance initiatives, and effective team management. This individual works closely with clinical and operational teams to ensure nutritional needs are met in accordance with physician orders, resident preferences, and applicable regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations

• Direct and oversee all Dining Services operations, including resident meals, employee dining, retail venues, and catering services.
• Lead, mentor, and develop Dining Services team members to ensure high-quality service and operational excellence.
• Support and promote the organization's mission, values, and goals.
• Develop departmental policies, procedures, and service standards.
• Conduct department meetings and ensure staff training requirements are completed.

Resident & Patient Nutrition

• Assess residents' dietary preferences and nutritional needs in accordance with physician orders.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary care teams to develop and implement nutrition care plans.
• Conduct resident visits to evaluate meal satisfaction and nutritional outcomes.
• Educate residents and family members on nutrition and dietary needs as appropriate.
• Document dietary assessments, progress notes, intake studies, and care plan updates as required.

Dining Experience & Customer Service

• Monitor food quality, presentation, service levels, and overall resident dining experiences.
• Establish and evaluate feedback systems to continuously improve resident satisfaction.
• Address questions or concerns related to dining services and nutritional programs.
• Participate in resident and employee orientation programs.

Menu Planning & Food Quality

• Collaborate with the Registered Dietitian and Executive Chef to develop menus for all dining venues.
• Ensure therapeutic diets are developed and implemented according to approved dietary guidelines.
• Monitor meal service to verify compliance with diet orders, portion control standards, and resident preferences.
• Evaluate meal acceptance and implement improvements when needed.

Budget & Purchasing

• Develop and manage operating, capital, and non-capital budgets for Dining Services.
• Monitor expenses to ensure department operations remain within budget.
• Purchase food, supplies, smallwares, and equipment in accordance with organizational policies.
• Assist with vendor selection and procurement processes, including obtaining bids when appropriate.

Regulatory Compliance & Sanitation

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations as well as accreditation standards.
• Maintain food safety and sanitation programs that meet regulatory requirements.
• Direct department cleaning and sanitation practices.
• Provide staff education on food safety, sanitation, regulatory compliance, customer service, and dining competencies.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor's degree in Food Service Management, Nutrition, Hospitality Management, Healthcare Administration, or a related field preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in healthcare dining services, food service management, nutrition services, or a related field required.
• Previous supervisory or management experience in long-term care, senior living, healthcare, or hospitality preferred.

Certifications

• ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification required in North Carolina, or ability to obtain within 120 days of hire.
• Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) credential preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Knowledge of geriatric nutrition and therapeutic diets.
• Understanding of healthcare food service regulations and sanitation requirements.
• Experience with budgeting, purchasing, and vendor management.
• Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with residents, families, staff, and healthcare professionals.

Why Join Abernethy Laurels?

At Abernethy Laurels, we are committed to enhancing the lives of older adults through exceptional care, service, and community. As Director of Food Services, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on resident satisfaction, health, and quality of life while leading a dedicated and passionate team.

EveryAge is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.