Vice President, Operations

Sodexo; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 172,000 - 222,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

401(k) with matching

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Sodexo is seeking a senior leader for the Midwest to drive operating excellence across a key client portfolio. You will lead cross-functional teams, strengthen client relationships, and champion a strong safety culture while delivering consistent performance.

The role emphasizes talent development, succession planning, and strategic growth across the division. Based in the Midwest near a major airport, travel will be regular to support clients and business needs.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of management experience in food service contracts.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead large, cross-functional teams to drive operational excellence.
• Strengthen client partnerships with proven relationship strategies.
• Develop and implement talent management and succession plans.
• Collaborate with regional leaders to align local efforts with goals.
• Use data-driven insights to guide workforce planning and decisions.

Skills

Leadership

Operational excellence

Client relationship mgmt

Talent development

Succession planning

Data-driven decisions

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Job description

Corporate Services leadership role supporting Midwest clients. Seeking a proven leader with food service contract experience to drive operational excellence, strengthen culture, develop teams, and deliver outstanding client results.Candidate must reside in the Midwest near a major airport and be willing to travel regularly as required to support clients and business needsAbout the jobStep into a high-impact leadership position where you'll shape strategy, inspire performance, and drive growth across a key business area. You'll lead teams, foster client relationships, and deliver solutions that support long-term success—for both your division and the broader organization.Oversees the design, implementation or delivery of processes, programs and policies using specialized knowledge and skills typically acquired through advanced education. Work is primarily achieved by an individual or through project teams, with emphasis on technical knowledge rather than managing people.Pay Range: $171870 per year - $222420 per yearIncentive Eligibility: Eligible to participate in Sodexo's incentive plan and earn variable compensation in addition to base salaryWhat’s in it for youChampion a strong safety culture while delivering operational excellence and consistent commercial performanceDrive strategic initiatives that support sustainable growth, client satisfaction, and innovation across your divisionLead and develop high-performing teams, with a strong focus on talent management, succession planning, and engagementInfluence key stakeholders and cultivate trusted client partnerships using proven tools and relationship strategiesBring forward new ideas, operational improvements, and branded programs to create lasting value for clients and customersCollaborate with regional and segment leaders to align local efforts with broader business goalsUse data-driven insights to guide workforce planning, improve team efficiency, and enhance decision-makingWhat you’ll bringExperience leading large, cross-functional teams with a focus on operational excellence and long-term growthConsultative and communication skills to engage diverse stakeholders and foster trusted client relationshipsStrategic mindset with the ability to turn insights into action and drive meaningful business outcomesDemonstrated success in talent development, succession planning, and building high-performing teamsDeep understanding of client environments and the ability to serve as a trusted advisor who brings forward innovative, value-driven solutionsRequirementsEducation Requirement: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experienceManagement Experience: 10 yearsRelated Experience: 10 yearsWhat we offerCompensation 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 Programs401(k) Plan with Matching ContributionsPaid Time Off and Company HolidaysCareer Growth Opportunities and Tuition ReimbursementMore extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.Who we areAt 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.