DIRECTOR, DINING SERVICES - FOOD SERVICES - Duval

Compass Group•Jacksonville, FL

13d•$70,000 - $80,000

About The Position

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 www.ChartwellsK12.com.Are you an energetic, people‑focused leader with a passion for transforming the K‑12 dining experience? We’re seeking a dynamic Director of Dining Services to elevate student dining across a region of 12–14 schools within Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) — part of a dynamic $35M, 147‑school partnership supported by a robust operational team. In this $5–7M regional role, you’ll guide 12–14 lead associates and 50–60 union frontline employees while partnering closely with Area Directors, Executive Chefs, HR, and senior leadership to deliver exceptional food quality, service, and student engagement. This is a chance to shape the future of dining in one of the most influential K‑12 districts in the Southeast. You’ll inspire teams, champion operational excellence, and bring fresh ideas that create memorable culinary moments for thousands of students each day. With responsibility for P&L performance, labor strategy, food costing, HR leadership, and team accountability, you’ll make a measurable impact on both culture and outcomes — all while helping drive innovation within a high‑visibility, high‑growth Chartwells account. If you thrive in fast‑paced, multi‑unit environments and love leading empowered, service‑driven teams, this role offers extraordinary career potential. Step into a position that blends purpose, leadership, and creativity — and help redefine what school dining can be.

Requirements

Five plus years of foodservice management experience.
Exceptional leadership and communication skills.
Proficiency in computer skills.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Food Services Management/Hospitality/Culinary or Nutrition degree highly preferred or equivalent experience.
Strong knowledge of high-volume food production and catering trends is preferred.
Previous P&L accountability or contract-managed services experience.
Experience managing in a union environment, desirable!

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and inspire our team of Chartwells frontline associates.
Drive strategic initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and increase profitability.
Recruit, train, and develop top talent within the organization.
Own the annual budget and control costs optimally.
Ensure adherence to quality, safety, and sanitation standards.
Build strong relationships with clients, customers, and associates.
Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation.