Director of Mizzou Food Services

Campus Dining Services

Position Summary:
The University of Missouri (Mizzou or MU), the flagship, land-grant, comprehensive research university of the University of Missouri System, seeks a proven leader to serve as Director of Food Services for the campus. The Director of Food Services is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational oversight, service goals and financial performance of the university's comprehensive food service programs. This role ensures efficient, high-quality food service operations across multiple dining locations, including both in-house and contracted vendors, focusing on cost control, contract management, and exceptional student and faculty/staff/visitor dining experiences. The director will oversee staffing, vendor relationships, and performance metrics while ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership & Efficiency

• Oversee the daily operations of a comprehensive, multi-unit food service program, ensuring high-quality and cost-effective service delivery. The portfolio includes 17 residential and retail operations, four campus markets, and oversight for three third-party operators.
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for financial performance, customer satisfaction, food quality, and operational efficiency.
• Implement best practices to optimize food production, inventory management, and waste reduction.
• Ensure compliance with university policies, health codes, and industry safety standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery and streamline workflows.

Customer Experience & Quality Assurance

• Enhance the dining experience for approximately 30,000 students, faculty, staff, and visitors, through menu innovation and service improvements.
• Monitor customer feedback and implement changes to address concerns and improve satisfaction scores.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure food quality, safety, and presentation meet the highest standards.
• Collaborate with campus stakeholders to align food service offerings with student needs and wellness initiatives.

Strategic Planning & Innovation

• Develop and implement long-term strategies for dining services aligned with university goals.
• Identify and integrate technology solutions for ordering, payment, and operational efficiency.
• Lead sustainability initiatives, including local sourcing, waste reduction, and environmentally friendly practices.
• Stay informed on industry trends, emerging technologies, and student preferences to drive continuous innovation.

Staffing & Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing food services team including managers, chefs, and frontline employees. The current workforce includes approximately 125 staff and 400 student employees.
• Oversee recruitment, training, and performance evaluations to maintain a motivated workforce.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and customer service excellence.
• Ensure adherence to labor laws, understanding of policies terms, and workplace safety policies.

Financial Oversight & Budget Management

• Develop, implement, and oversee the operations $30M revenue budget, ensuring financial targets are met or exceeded.
• Conduct financial analysis to improve margins, control costs, and optimize revenue streams.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining high food quality and service standards.
• Develop pricing strategies that align with market trends and student affordability.

Contract & Vendor Management

• Lead contract negotiations with third-party food service providers, ensuring favorable terms and compliance with service expectations.
• Oversee vendor relationships, ensuring contract adherence, cost control, and high-quality service standards.
• Evaluate and manage supplier performance, ensuring timely procurement and optimal inventory levels.
• Ensure third-party providers align with university goals for sustainability, nutrition, and student satisfaction.
  

8am - 5pm

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 8 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field; Master's preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience overseeing a comprehensive food services operation, preferably large-scale hospitality, or food service.
• Proven experience negotiating contracts and managing third-party providers.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and contract negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, labor laws, and industry best practices.
  

Salary Range: $150,000 - $165,000 yearly

Grade: GGS-014

University Title: Director II CSM Operations

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Resume, Cover Letter

At Mizzou Dining Services, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, nutritious, and a variety of dining options that fuel the University of Missouri community. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional customer service, fostering a welcoming environment, and supporting the university's mission of excellence.

We operate a variety of dining locations across campus, including residential dining halls, retail food outlets, coffee shops, and catering services. Whether serving a quick bite or a full-course meal, we take pride in creating enjoyable dining experiences for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Join our team and become part of a dynamic, fast-paced environment where teamwork, growth, and a passion for great food come together

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.