Airline Lounges Food Operations Manager
Company : Sodexo
Location : San Antonio, TX, 78216
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 11 January 2026
Role Overview
Sodexo's Airline Lounge Segment has an exciting opportunity for a Operations Manager to join the elite team of professionals who will operate the United Club Lounge, at San Antonio International Airport in San Antonio, TX. We are seeking a talented individual who will commit to the challenges of creating and delivering a culinary-driven, upscale experience within a thoughtfully designed travel oasis. The ideal manager candidate will have eclectic menu knowledge and upscale a la carte experience. This is a hands-on manager role requiring previous experience managing upscale food production.
What You'll Do
The successful candidate will:
- have oversight of daily food operations and deliver a high-quality product;
- achieve company and client financial targets and goals;
- develop and maintain client and customer relationships;
- motivate, coach, mentor and develop frontline (hourly) staff; and/or
- ensure Sodexo standards are met to include compliance with company food and physical safety programs.
- Fully versed in Profit and Loss, inventory and fiscal responsibilities of operating a stand alone business.
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
Is this opportunity right for you? We are looking for candidates who:
- have a work history demonstrating strong leadership skills and the ability to work collaboratively with all levels of the organization;
- 2-3 years experience at the Ops Mgr or AGM level with a recognized concept or company;
- possess the ability to manage multiple priorities, demonstrate professional communication skills, and exhibit a passion for a high-level of customer service;
- exhibit flexibility to take on additional responsibilities as needed; and/or
- demonstrate working knowledge of automated food inventory, ordering, production and management systems as well as menu graphics programs;
- has experience in financials, preparation and oversight.
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 years Minimum Functional Experience – 1 year 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
Airline lounge food operations demand a blend of culinary excellence and rapid service tailored for travelers. Unlike standard restaurants, managers must balance high-quality a la carte menus with strict airline schedules and premium guest expectations, ensuring seamless food delivery within a controlled, upscale environment.
Strong leadership, inventory control, and financial acumen are vital. Additionally, expertise in upscale menu curation, automated food ordering systems, and customer relationship management helps oversee smooth daily operations and deliver a luxurious dining experience in busy airport lounges.
Daily tasks include supervising food prep quality, analyzing profit and loss, coaching frontline staff, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Managers also coordinate with airline clients and adapt menus to meet diverse traveler preferences at the San Antonio International Airport lounge.
While an associate's degree is common, certifications like ServSafe or HACCP are advantageous. Local employers often favor candidates with proven knowledge in food safety regulations and hospitality management, aligning with San Antonio’s regulatory standards and customer service expectations.
San Antonio's growing airport traffic increases demand for skilled managers, but competition remains moderate due to specialized skill requirements. Candidates with a blend of culinary knowledge and operational leadership experience typically stand out in this niche hospitality sector.
Managing for Sodexo involves balancing client-specific standards with the dynamic airport environment. Challenges include upholding Sodexo's food safety protocols, meeting financial targets under fluctuating travel volumes, and delivering a consistent upscale culinary experience in a fast-paced setting.
Sodexo offers structured growth paths through leadership development programs, tuition reimbursement, and cross-segment opportunities within hospitality operations. Their commitment to diversity and inclusion fosters a supportive culture where managers can enhance skills and ascend to higher operational roles.
Salaries typically range between $65,000 and $85,000 annually, influenced by experience and education. Given San Antonio's cost of living and the specialized nature of airline lounge food management, compensation packages often include benefits like healthcare and 401(k) matching.
Effective communication, team motivation, adaptability, and a customer-first mindset are prized. Sodexo seeks managers who can inspire hourly staff, foster collaborative environments, and maintain operational excellence under the unique pressures of airport hospitality.
Absolutely. Proficiency in automated inventory and ordering systems streamlines operations, reduces waste, and ensures menu consistency. This technological fluency is critical in Sodexo's airline lounge settings to meet client expectations and maintain fiscal responsibility.