Food Operations Manager - Retail
Company : Sodexo
Location : Nashville, TN, 37212
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Role Overview
Let your passion for people be the driver of your success!
Salary Range: $75,000 - $94,800
Sodexo is seeking a Food Operations Manager at Belmont University in Nashville, TN, to oversee retail operations on campus. Our ideal candidate will be a self-starter with excellent communication skills and the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Strong financial and analytical skills are mandatory for this position. Experience managing a food service team in an education environment is strongly preferred. Exceptional customer relations and team-building skills are a must!
What You'll Do
- Establishes a safe work environment
- Utilizes Sodexo tools and programs to develop client, customer, and staff relationships, to ensure account retention
- Implements and fully utilizes all Sodexo tools and programs to ensure financial outcomes
- Directs daily operations of food service to ensure employees have appropriate equipment, inventory, and resources, and ensures operating standards and regulatory requirements are met
- Develops and implements plans, projects with defined objectives, methods, timetables, and budgets to support the client and Sodexo's strategic plan
- Ensures adherence to all HR standards for Sodexo, clients, and regulatory agencies
What We Offer
Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
- Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
- 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
- Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
- Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement
More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.
What You Bring
- previous multi-unit management preferred
- excellent leadership and communication skills with the ability to maintain the highest culinary standards
- strong coaching and employee development skills
- a passion for food and innovation
Who We Are
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.
Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.
Qualifications & Requirements
Minimum Education Requirement - Associate's Degree or equivalent experienceMinimum Management Experience - 2 yearsMinimum Functional Experience - 2 years work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.
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Frequently asked questions
Overseeing food operations at an educational institution like Belmont University requires balancing regulatory standards with a dynamic campus culture. Unlike typical retail, this role demands tailored menu planning, student engagement, and adherence to university policies, all while maintaining high culinary and safety standards.
Successful leadership in retail food operations hinges on clear communication, team motivation, and problem-solving under pressure. The ability to coach staff, delegate effectively, and maintain culinary excellence ensures smooth daily operations and enhances customer satisfaction.
Daily activities include supervising food service teams, managing inventory and resources, ensuring compliance with health regulations, and leveraging Sodexo's management tools to drive financial results. The role also involves client relationship building and strategic planning to support growth.
While an associate’s degree is the minimum, certifications in food safety (like ServSafe) are highly valued locally. Experience managing food services in educational or retail settings also enhances candidacy due to Tennessee's regulatory environment and operational demands.
Nashville's food service industry is vibrant, with steady demand for skilled managers, especially in retail and educational sectors. Candidates with multi-unit management experience and strong financial acumen often stand out amid moderate competition.
Sodexo emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being alongside operational excellence. Their integrated tools and programs streamline financial and client management, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that values innovation and career development.
Sodexo supports upward mobility through training, tuition reimbursement, and leadership development. The role's focus on multi-unit oversight and strategic planning provides a strong foundation for advancing into senior management within the food service industry.
Candidates can anticipate a salary between $75,000 and $94,800 annually, reflecting experience, education, and skills. This range aligns with Nashville’s market rates for food service management in retail environments.
Sodexo adapts to Nashville’s diverse tastes and local regulations by emphasizing fresh, innovative food offerings and community engagement. Their commitment to social and environmental progress resonates with the city’s evolving culinary scene.
Balancing diverse dietary needs, maintaining compliance amidst evolving health guidelines, and coordinating with university stakeholders can be complex. Navigating these while meeting Sodexo’s standards requires adaptability and strong interpersonal skills.