General Manager - Illinois State University

Job Listing:
General Manager

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests, and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where "everyday" is anything but normal.

Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background, and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment.

We are seeking an experienced General Manager for the Illinois State University
.

Illinois State University is the oldest public university in Illinois and home to a vibrant Division I athletics program competing in the Missouri Valley Conference. The Redbirds attract thousands of fans each season across football, basketball, and other major sporting events, creating an energetic and loyal game‑day atmosphere. This role supports the stadium and athletic venue side of campus, where high‑volume events, fan engagement, and premium hospitality services come together to deliver a top‑tier collegiate sports experience.

Our team is responsible for elevating the stadium experience through quality food, beverage, and guest service operations during ISU athletic events.

The General Manager is charged with general oversight and leadership of all food and beverage operations. They serve as the linchpin for communications, support, and resource allocation to optimize unit profitability and meet the day‑to‑day operating budget.

The General Manager will provide hands‑on leadership to facilitate dining experiences that exceed guest expectations while revenue is maximized and expenses are effectively controlled. Their highest priorities will be to ensure that Sodexo Live!'s standards for quality, service, timeliness, safety, security, sanitation, and regulatory compliance are adhered to.

The General Manager will plan and prepare for events and activities according to anticipated guest attendance and client expectations, provide hands‑on management and oversight, and direct and support post‑event activities, reconciliation, and reporting.

The General Manager will establish daily priorities and will direct the ongoing activities of department heads in key functional areas such as administration, culinary production, hospitality, warehousing, sales, accounting, and cash management to ensure operations run smoothly, efficiently, and in accordance with client/partner specifications.

• Oversee procurement, production, preparation, service, and sale of food and refreshments for all outlets within assigned units.
• Communicate and promote Sodexo Live!'s culture and values; provide hands‑on leadership and direction to department heads and staff.
• Ensure compliance with company standards, client specifications, contractual obligations, and other legal and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Manage the financial performance of the venue through effective expense control and by developing, analyzing, and implementing budgets, sales plans, and forecasts.
• Participate in recruitment, selection, and training processes as needed for the assigned unit.
• Identify and respond to client and customer feedback and assist in escalated situations as necessary.

• Bachelor's degree and/or appropriate combination of education and experience to support on‑the‑job effectiveness.
• Minimum of 5 years of previous senior leadership experience within a diverse, contract‑managed food and beverage environment, including successful management of a large staff and focus on exceptional client and customer service.
• Experience managing contract food & beverage, including suites and concessions/retail, will be considered an asset.
• Demonstrated financial acumen with past P&L responsibility of at least $2M.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and general workplace safety standards and health department requirements.
• Technologically savvy,…