Vice President of Operations - K-12 Food Service

Job Description

Job Description

Vice President of Operations – K-12 Food Service

Are you a proven operations leader who excels at motivating teams, driving efficiency, and delivering results? My client is seeking a Vice President of Operations to join their executive leadership team. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a growing K-12 food service organization while ensuring excellence in service, profitability, and customer satisfaction.

As Vice President of Operations , you will oversee the strategic and operational performance of multi-unit food service programs. This includes driving efficiency across staffing, menu planning, supply chain, inventory, marketing initiatives, and compliance. You’ll also play a key role as a member of the Board of Directors , contributing to long-term strategy and growth.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership – Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with organizational goals and long-term growth.

Operational Oversight – Ensure consistency and excellence across multiple sites, focusing on staffing, process improvement, and compliance.

Financial Management – Manage P&L across multiple locations, using data-driven insights to identify risks and opportunities.

Team Development – Lead, mentor, and develop multi-level teams, building strong leadership pipelines and driving engagement.

Innovation & Growth – Champion new technologies, process improvements, and expansion opportunities.

Board Engagement – Actively participate in board discussions, providing operational insights to support company-wide decision-making.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, hospitality, or related field required.

10+ years of progressive, senior-level operations leadership in multi-unit food service (K-12 experience strongly preferred).

Demonstrated success in managing decentralized operations with consistent performance across sites.

Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, labor laws, and regulatory compliance.

Expertise in supply chain management, procurement, vendor relations, and logistics.

Proven track record in P&L management and financial oversight.

Outstanding communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM / database platforms; knowledge of industry-specific systems preferred.

Position Details

This is a hybrid position with office attendance required a few days per week at our regional headquarters in the Midwest.

Preference for candidates within commuting distance; remote applicants within the five-state footprint will also be considered.

Relocation assistance may be available.

Travel required up to 25% , including overnight travel as needed.

They offer competitive compensation and benefits, along with a dynamic, fun, and inspiring work culture. Their benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings 401(k) plan, paid holidays, and generous paid time off (PTO).

Don't Miss Out!! Apply today by sending your resume to Tami Manker by emailing at

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law