Catlett Marketplace General Manager

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

About The Position

University Housing and Dining is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as the Catlett Marketplace General Manager . In this role, you will oversee all aspects of daily operations, special events, and staff development while ensuring exceptional food quality, operational efficiency, and strict compliance with safety and sanitation standards. You’ll drive innovation through menu planning, marketing initiatives, financial performance, and inventory control, all while fostering a welcoming environment that enhances the campus experience for students, staff, and guests. This position also plays a key role in supporting student success through programs such as Iowa GROW, making it an opportunity to lead with impact and shape the future of campus dining. The anticipated start date for the position is February 2026. For a detailed job description, please email Melia Pieper at [email protected]. About the Division of Student Life The Division of Student Life is comprised of staff that embrace new ideas and thoughts, works together to keep our students safe, and provides them with life-changing experiences. The Division of Student Life includes 15 departments that span from Recreation Services to the Office of Leadership, Service and Civic Engagement and everything in between. We believe in working together as one team to achieve our mission: fostering student success by creating and promoting educationally purposeful services and activities within and beyond the classroom. Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics, Foods and Nutrition, Institutional Management, Hotel & Restaurant Administration or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and supervisory experience.
Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to effectively transmit, receive and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through appropriate communication methods and behaviors.
Demonstrated experience navigating change in prior positions, reflected in accomplishments like implementing new procedures, supporting organizational restructuring, improving service delivery, or quickly mastering new tools or platforms.
Ability to obtain and maintain ServSafe certification and Allergen training certification within 6 months of hire.
Experience creating and maintaining a welcoming and respectful environment.
Demonstrated experience delivering high-quality customer service in a fast-paced, high-volume food service environment.

Nice To Haves

Working experience in a large-scale food service operation.
Working experience with electronic timekeeping systems, inventory systems, and POS systems.
Experience at a large institution or corporation
Experience working at a government institution

Responsibilities

Oversee food preparation and service to maintain quality, nutritional standards, and cost control.
Plan and execute menus, special events, and marketing strategies.
Lead and manage staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluations for managers, merit staff, and student employees.
Monitor financial performance, including budget development, payroll compliance, and daily transaction reports.
Manage inventory control processes, including ordering, forecasting, and maintaining par levels.
Ensure compliance with safety and sanitation standards through regular inspections and corrective actions.
Develop and implement staff training programs, including food safety and allergen certifications.
Collaborate with campus partners to enhance dining operations and customer satisfaction.
Resolve HR issues and participate in strategic planning for residential dining operations.
Continuously improve operational processes to increase efficiency and service quality.