Area General Manager

Sodexo•Chicago, IL

23h

About The Position

Sodexo is seeking an accomplished Area General Manager to lead a portfolio of three premier accounts in Chicago, IL. In this dynamic, hands-on leadership role, you will oversee all aspects of food service operations, including retail cafés, high-touch catering, and culinary production, while driving operational excellence and financial performance. As a visible and strategic leader, you will inspire and develop a talented team of managers and frontline staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and exceptional service. This high-impact position calls for strong business acumen, executive presence, and a passion for delivering outstanding dining experiences. The ideal candidate brings a diverse background in culinary, hospitality, and multi-unit operations, along with proven financial management and presentation skills. Join Sodexo and make a lasting impact by elevating teams, exceeding client expectations, and advancing the success of these flagship Chicago accounts! Corporate Services Sodexo provides our corporate service partners with a diverse range of food services and integrated facilities management possibilities. From restaurants to delivery options, to streamlined operations and cutting-edge technology, Sodexo creates a safe, vibrant, and eco-friendly workplace.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience required.
Demonstrated success leading multiple locations and diverse teams, with the ability to drive consistency, performance, and engagement across units.
Strong, collaborative leadership style with executive presence and the ability to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels.
Proven experience managing complex budgets, delivering cost control, revenue growth, and sustained profitability.
Highly organized and adaptable, with the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining exceptional communication, responsiveness, and client service—flexible to support business needs, including evenings and weekends.
Proficient in automated food inventory and ordering systems, production management tools, and business presentation platforms, with the ability to develop polished presentation decks and menu graphics that effectively communicate strategy, performance, and culinary vision.
Minimum Education Requirement - Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experienceMinimum Management Experience – 5 yearsMinimum Functional Experience – 5 years

Responsibilities

Provide strategic, hands-on leadership for daily food operations across three Chicago accounts, ensuring exceptional culinary quality, elevated presentation, and a consistently outstanding guest experience across retail cafés, catering, and production.
Drive financial performance across multiple units by managing budgets, forecasting, and cost controls to meet and exceed company and client objectives.
Build and sustain strong client partnerships, serving as a trusted advisor to enhance satisfaction, retention, and long-term growth.
Inspire and develop managers and frontline teams, fostering accountability, engagement, and a culture of service excellence.
Ensure full compliance with Sodexo standards for food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety while promoting an inclusive, high-performing environment.
Evaluate operational performance and implement data-driven improvements; prepare and deliver impactful business reviews and presentations that communicate results, strategy, and opportunities to clients and senior leadership.