DIRECTOR DINING SERVICES - K12 Potential New Busin

Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit

Job Summary

We’re preparing to launch a new partnership with a K–12 school district in the Jackson, Michigan area , and we’re seeking a Director of Dining Services who’s ready to hit the ground running. This is a high-impact, hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives in both kitchen operations and community engagement. The successful candidate will be personable, highly organized, and motivated to make an immediate impact—bringing strong experience in managing food service programs and leading teams with confidence and care.

You’ll oversee food operations across multiple schools, guiding a team of food service professionals while serving as the face of the dining program. From menu development and scratch cooking, this role offers the opportunity to elevate school dining through innovation, creativity, and connection. If you're passionate about nutrition, student engagement, and transforming school meals into a culinary experience—this is your chance to lead with purpose and pride.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, mentor, and encourage our team of dedicated frontline associates (some union).
• Drive critical initiatives to improve customer satisfaction and increase profitability.
• Recruit, train, and develop top talent within the organization.
• Lead the annual budget and coordinates costs effectively.
• Ensure adherence to quality, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Build positive relationships with clients, customers, and associates.
• Market the program and successfully tell its story to engage customers.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of the dining service operation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in Food Services Management/Hospitality/Culinary or Nutrition preferred or equivalent experience preferred .
• Strong leadership skills with a proven record to cultivate an inclusive and engaging culture.
• Skilled in crafting impactful, long-term relationships that drive program success and client satisfaction.
• Food service management experience needed.
• Solid culinary background preferred.
• Catering experience preferred.
• Knowledge of K12 food service experience is preferred.
• Previous P&L accountability or contract-managed services experience.
• Proficiency in computer skills.

Apply to Chartwells Schools today!

Chartwells Schools is a member of Compass Group USA

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, 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. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Chartwells K-12 maintains a drug-free workplace.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Associates at Chartwells K-12 are offered many fantastic benefits.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here for paid time off benefits information.

Req ID: 1449543

Chartwells K12

KRISTEN STROHMYER

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