Campus Dining Director: Culinary Innovation & Ops

Austin Grill LLC; Springfield (VA); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Thompson Hospitality, a leading campus dining and facilities partner, seeks a Food Service Director to drive dining programs across a university setting. You will lead strategy, menu development, budgets, and compliance while inspiring a large team.

This role emphasizes nutrition-forward menus, sustainability, and student engagement, with a focus on delivering exceptional dining experiences within a dynamic campus environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, Business Administration, or related field; Master’s preferred but not required.
• 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience in food service management, preferably campus dining or higher education.
• Proven track record of managing large, multi-outlet dining operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term strategic plans to enhance the dining program.
• Lead creation and implementation of innovative menus meeting nutritional needs and sustainability goals.
• Oversee staffing, procurement, inventory, facilities, and compliance with health and safety standards.
• Manage dining facility budget, cost control, and profitability while maximizing resources.
• Lead and mentor a team of managers and staff to deliver exceptional customer service.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Staff management

Food safety & HACCP

Menu development

Vendor relations

Customer service

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

POS systems

Menu management software

Inventory software

Food safety systems

Job description

Thompson Hospitality, a leading campus dining and facilities partner, seeks a Food Service Director to drive dining programs across a university setting. You will lead strategy, menu development, budgets, and compliance while inspiring a large team.

This role emphasizes nutrition-forward menus, sustainability, and student engagement, with a focus on delivering exceptional dining experiences within a dynamic campus environment.