OPERATIONS DIRECTOR - Binghamton University - Binghamton, NY

Job Summary

Are you a strategic, people-focused leader with a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences? Compass Group is seeking a Residential Director of Operations to oversee a multi-million-dollar residential dining program at Binghamton University, one of the premier higher education dining environments in the country.

In this highly visible leadership role, you will guide daily operations across residential dining facilities, lead a talented team of managers and associates, drive financial performance, and cultivate strong client partnerships. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the student experience while advancing your career with a global leader in foodservice management.

Why Join Compass Group?

As a Residential Director of Operations, you'll have the opportunity to work with innovative teams, influence campus dining strategy, and contribute to an industry-leading higher education program focused on hospitality, student satisfaction, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for a large-scale residential dining operation serving thousands of students daily.
• Develop and execute operational plans, budgets, and strategic initiatives to achieve financial and service goals.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing management team while fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and excellence.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with university stakeholders and campus partners.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, safety, sanitation, and customer service.
• Monitor financial performance, manage budgets, and drive profitability through effective cost controls and operational efficiencies.
• Ensure compliance with Compass Group policies, account standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze operational data and provide accurate reporting to leadership and campus clients.
• Champion innovation, continuous improvement, and student-focused dining experiences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Minimum of five years of progressive foodservice management experience.
• Significant leadership experience within higher education dining, including residential and retail operations.
• Proven experience managing large, multi-unit foodservice programs and diverse teams.
• Strong understanding of P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and financial accountability.
• Contract-managed service experience highly preferred.
• Demonstrated success in client relationship management and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team development skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment while maintaining focus on service excellence.

Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will be a collaborative and strategic leader who combines operational expertise with exceptional relationship-building skills. You are passionate about mentoring teams, enhancing the student experience, and delivering outstanding results in a complex higher education environment.

Join Compass Group and help shape the future of campus dining at Binghamton University while leading one of our premier residential dining programs.