SR Director, DINING Services - Ypsilianti Community School District, MI

Sr Director of Dining Services – Ypsilanti Community Schools

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Sr Director of Dining Services to lead the K‑12 dining program serving approximately 3,200 students across 12 schools.

The Sr Director will oversee all USDA programs—Breakfast, Lunch, Snack, and Supper—drive innovative initiatives such as Mood Boost, Global Eats, Student Choice, and Discover Kitchen, and manage a large, unionized team of up to 40 client frontline associates, supported by a dedicated Executive Chef and Assistant Director. The role demands a strategic, hands‑on leader who balances high-level planning with boots‑on‑the‑ground leadership, inspires the team, and creates a culture of accountability and innovation.

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of salaried managers and frontline associates.
• Drive strategic initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and increase profitability.
• Recruit, train, and develop top talent within the organization.
• Own the annual budget and control costs optimally.
• Ensure adherence to quality, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Build strong relationships with clients, customers, and associates.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of the dining service operation.

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Services Technology/Management/Hospitality preferred or equivalent experience.
• Five plus years of food service management experience.
• Strong knowledge of high‑volume food production and catering trends.
• Previous P&L accountability or contract‑managed services experience.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills.
• Proficiency in computer skills and POS software.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a business and a team with strong customer service and financial acumen.
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills.

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. 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. We will consider all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.