FOOD QUALITY ASSURANCE DIRECTOR - DINING SERVICES - UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY - LEXINGTON, KY
Compass GroupAbout the role
A family of companies and experiences
As the leading foodservice and support services company, Compass Group USA is known for our great people, great service and our great results. If you’ve been hungry and away from home, chances are you’ve tasted Compass Group’s delicious food and experienced our outstanding service. We have over 284,000 US associates who work in award-winning restaurants, corporate cafes, hospitals, schools, arenas, museums, and more in all 50 states. Our reach is constantly expanding to shape the industry and create new opportunities for innovation. Join the Compass family today!
great people. great services. great results.
Each and every individual plays a key role in the growth and legacy of our company. We know the next big idea can come from anyone. We encourage developing and attracting expertise that differentiates us as a company as we continue to raise the bar.
Job Summary
Join Compass Group North America — Be Part of a Transformational Partnership!
Compass Group is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with the University of Kentucky (UK), launching July 1, 2026—and we’re looking for talented individuals to help bring this innovative, integrated services model to life.
This long-term collaboration reflects a bold vision to align and strengthen services across UK’s campus, healthcare system, and athletics programs. By bringing together foodservice, hospitality, facilities management, and healthcare support, we are building a more connected and dynamic environment that enhances the experience for students, staff, patients, and the broader community.
If you’re passionate about innovation, service excellence, and being part of something bigger, we invite you to explore career opportunities with Compass at the University of Kentucky.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and provide readiness for Health Division Food Service Inspections, 3rd party Food Safety Audits
- Perform unit level safety audits for residential dining, retail, catering and commissary operations
- Provide written feedback to unit managers, clients and vendor partners, regarding unit observations and assist with implementation of Compass Safety Standards and Solutions Action Plans
- Lead safety management team meetings and perform Safety/QA Training with associates, and one-on-one with management involvement
- Develop, implement and update the Quality Assurance, Food Safety and Emergency Plans
- Provide verification that the safety systems are working daily, identify deficiencies and implement new strategies
- Attend meetings, workshops and special events for safety issues
- Supports Food Allergen Compliance
- Serve as flexible safety specialists as first responders
Preferred Qualifications
- B.S. degree in food technology, food science, or related curriculum and/or experience required, Masters preferred
- At least 10 years of directly related experience required in Quality Assurance and Food Safety
- Experienced in prepared foods manufacturing a plus
- Prior compliance experience with all Health codes, maintain Health permitting and ServSafe Certifications including professional communication skills with all levels of associates and clients; able to train associates and managers; able to analyze problems and select appropriate solutions
- Ability to maintain ServSafe Certification (90% or higher) (within 90 days as per Compass Standard)
- Previous health permitting, QA and Safety Training experience
- Attention to detail and ability to help managers to find solutions
- Demonstrated written and oral communication skills, and professionalism
- Strong data management, reporting, and writing skills
- Strong understand of FSMA is a must
- Proficient in MS Office applications
Apply to Compass Group today!
Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibiliti
Apply for this role
Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.
Apply Now →Generate Application KitFree account required — sign up in 30s