Area Director – District Manager, Higher Education

Creative Dining Services

. Lead a multi-state portfolio of college and university dining programs representing approximately $15-$20 million in annual managed volume .

Posted 9/24/2026full-timeZeeland • Michigan • United StatesLead💰 $110,000 - $125,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in managing multi-state college and university dining programs, focusing on financial performance, operational efficiency, and client relationship management. Proven ability to lead teams through coaching, development, and innovative solutions while ensuring high standards of food quality and guest satisfaction.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Multi-Site Contract Foodservice ExperienceHigher Education Dining ExpertiseFinancial Performance ManagementLeadership and Team DevelopmentClient Relationship Management

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

BudgetingForecastingPerformance ManagementCulinary ManagementOperational EfficiencyFood Quality StandardsHospitality ProgramsAnalytical CapabilitiesSustainability InitiativesCatering Operations

Soft Skills

Exceptional LeadershipCommunication SkillsCoaching SkillsTeam-Building SkillsAdaptability

Tools & Technologies

People Management SystemsFinancial Management SystemsOperational Management Systems

Certifications & Qualifications

ServSafe CertificationFormal Allergen Training

Industry Keywords

Higher Education DiningResidential DiningRetail OperationsCampus PartnershipsClient Partnerships

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead a multi-state portfolio of college and university dining programs representing approximately $15-$20 million in annual managed volume
Report to the Regional Vice President of Operations
Coach and develop Food Service Directors and campus leaders
Strengthen client partnerships with college and university stakeholders
Ensure consistent execution of food quality, culinary and marketing standards, guest satisfaction, safety initiatives, and hospitality programs
Identify opportunities, develop innovative solutions, and communicate plans that drive results
Build talent pipelines through coaching, succession planning, performance management, and professional development
Monitor financial performance, analyze key metrics, develop action plans, and maximize profitability and operational efficiency
Utilize operational, culinary, financial, and people management systems to support teams across multiple locations
Enhance dining programs through student expectations, food trends, sustainability initiatives, and creative hospitality solutions
Navigate complex environments and help teams adapt to change
Travel extensively to support campus teams and client partners

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in Business, Hospitality Management, Culinary Management, or a related field required; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered in lieu of a degree
Advanced degree preferred
Previous multi-site (multi-client) contract foodservice experience within colleges and universities, higher education dining
10+ years of related operations experience
7-10+ years of progressive leadership experience
At least 3 years overseeing multiple locations and client relationships within a district or regional structure
Strong understanding of higher education dining, including residential dining, retail operations, catering, conference services, and campus partnerships
Exceptional leadership, communication, coaching, and team-building skills
Strong financial and analytical capabilities, including budgeting, forecasting, and performance management
Ability to build credibility and maintain strong relationships in both virtual and in-person environments
Adaptability, critical thinking, and a proactive, solutions-focused mindset
Strong presentation, active listening, and written communication skills
Valid, unrestricted driver's license
ServSafe certification and formal allergen training preferred
Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and stand, walk, or move throughout the day as needed
Able to travel approximately 75-80%, including overnight travel

Benefits

Comp & perks

Performance-Based Bonus Opportunities
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
401(k) with Company Match
Paid Time Off
Tuition Reimbursement
Professional Development & Leadership Training
Career Advancement Opportunities
Employee Support & Wellness Benefits