CAMPUS DINING DIRECTOR OF OPERTIONS - Colgate University - Hamilton, NY

Location: Colgate University 

Salary:  $90,000 - $95,000

Other Forms of Compensation: Bonus Eligible 

Relocation Expenses: $5,000+ depending on certain criteria

 

At over 300 college & universities around the country, Chartwells Higher Education is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience. We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. We are food-forward difference makers, bound together by a desire to feed hungry minds and prepare students for success.

We are seeking hungry, humble and smart associates who are looking to join and grow with a diverse organization. We invite you to start your career journey with us and look forward to hearing from you. 

Job Summary

Working as a Director of Operations gives you the opportunity to do what you do best—lead exceptional people, deliver outstanding dining experiences, and make a meaningful impact on a vibrant campus community.

At Colgate University, we take pride in creating high-quality dining programs that support student success and campus life. We’re looking for an experienced, people‑focused leader to oversee our campus dining operations, ensuring excellence in service, quality, and financial performance.

 

About the Role

The Director of Operations is responsible for managing all aspects of the foodservice operation while maintaining established costs and quality standards. This role plays a critical part in delivering superior service, ensuring compliance, and maximizing operational results across both residential and retail dining.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage operational budgets, forecasts, and business plans
• Maintain and enforce quality, safety, and service standards across all dining locations
• Ensure compliance with all regional, contractual, and university policies and programs
• Lead, mentor, and develop management and frontline teams
• Provide accurate financial, operational, and performance reporting
• Drive continuous improvement in guest satisfaction, efficiency, and profitability

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Minimum of five years of foodservice management experience
• Higher education dining experience, including board and retail operations, required
• Strong knowledge of P&L accountability and contract‑managed service operations
• Proven leadership abilities with excellent communication and team‑building skills

Why Join Us?

• Work alongside talented, passionate professionals who value collaboration
• Lead a well‑respected campus dining program at a prestigious institution
• Competitive compensation package, including relocation assistance
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on the campus community

If you’re a strategic, hands‑on leader who thrives in higher‑education dining and is ready to take the next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply to Chartwells Higher Education today!

Chartwells Higher Education is a member of Compass Group USA

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 responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing ba