Director, Campus Dining

At the University of Denver, Student Affairs is at the heart of the student journey—empowering every student to thrive academically, personally, and professionally. Rooted in DU’s signature 4D Experience, our division is committed to fostering holistic development through four dimensions: deepen intellect, develop wellbeing, discover character, and design careers and lives of purpose.
Our work reaches far beyond the classroom. Through dynamic, high-impact programs, services, and experiences offered at both the Denver Campus and the Kennedy Mountain Campus, we foster inclusive communities, promote health and wellness, cultivate exploration, engagement, and leadership, and develop a deep sense of belonging. We are committed to creating a high-touch environment where students and participants connect meaningfully, grow confidently, and thrive personally and collectively.
As a division, we serve the broader DU and Denver community which includes:

• Current DU Students & Families
• Prospective Students & Families
• Faculty & Staff
• Alumni & Donors
• Local Community
• Companies & Organizations
• National Peers & Media

Together, we are shaping a vibrant, supportive, and dynamic campus culture where every student and participant can discover their potential and make a meaningful impact.

The Student Affairs division includes the following units:

• 4D Experience
• Office of External Relations (OER)
• Housing, Residential Education and Dining Services
• Driscoll & Community Commons
• Budget and Planning
• Student Engagement
• New Student & Family Programs
• Kennedy Mountain Campus
• DU Outdoors
• Wellness & Recreation
• Health & Counseling Center
• First@DU
• Learning Effectiveness Program
• Student Disability Services
• Student Outreach & Support
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• Veteran & Military Resources
• Office of the Dean of Students

Housing, Residential Education and Dining Services (aka HRE)

Housing, Residential Education and Dining Services at the University of Denver provide housing and support services for 2,800+ students living within university housing. Housing and Residential Education strives for a community that supports academic achievement and success, personal growth and development, a respectful and inclusive environment that promotes diversity, community service, and fosters leadership development and engaged staff and students.

Position Summary

The Director of Campus Dining serves as a member of the Housing and Residential Education senior leadership team and directly reports to the Assistant Vice Chancellor. Provides strategic leadership for campus dining, in partnership with food service contractor (Sodexo) and leadership, ensuring services align with Student Affairs priorities and deliver a high-quality, student-centered experience. This role leads long-term planning, pricing strategy, and contract implementation while collaborating on facility improvements and maintaining safe, inclusive dining environments. Serving as the primary liaison among students, staff, faculty, and dining partners, the position fosters clear communication, gathers stakeholder feedback, and drives continuous service enhancements. The role also manages escalated concerns, monitors satisfaction and performance data, and uses analytics to guide marketing, meal plan participation, and support revenue growth and program innovation.

This position summary is not designed to capture all activities, duties, or responsibilities required for this position. Responsibilities may change, or new duties may be assigned at any time.

Essential Functions

Leadership & Strategic Planning 

• Represent Student Affairs priorities and student-centered values in all dining initiatives and decisions
• Develop and implement long-term dining strategies, including concepts, service models, financial planning, and facility and dining plan growth
• Partner with vendor leadership, and AVC Business and Planning, on developing pricing strategy, or other food service RFP opportunities
• Contribute to university policy development and ensure alignment with institutional goals

Operations & Facilities Oversight 

• Oversee dining operations to ensure efficient, high-quality service across all residential and retail locations
• Collaborate on facility maintenance, capital improvements, and operational logistics
• Ensure dining spaces are safe, functional, and inclusive
• Maintain knowledge of health regulations, dietary needs, food allergies, and religious accommodation(s).

Stakeholder Engage