District Manager

Southwest Foodservice Excellence, LLC•Paterson, NJ

49d•Hybrid

About The Position

Drive Regional Impact – Step into a District Manager Role in K-12 Food Service! Are you a strategic leader with a passion for food service and people? As a District Manager, you’ll oversee operations across multiple school districts, lead high-performing teams, and build strong partnerships with clients and communities. This is a chance to take your multi-unit management skills to the next level while shaping the future of school nutrition and service excellence.

Requirements

10+ years of experience in food service, restaurant, or related industry (including multi-unit management)
Proven success in managing large teams, budgets, and operational outcomes
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
Experience with reporting systems, POS platforms, and financial analysis
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present to boards and executives
Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and reliable transportation (driving required)
Must be able to pass a background check, fingerprinting, and MVR audit
Strong leadership presence, adaptability, and ability to work independently

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, business, or related field preferred

Responsibilities

Build strong relationships with district clients and stakeholders
Develop tailored account plans and lead regular performance reviews with clients
Ensure delivery of high-quality food service that meets both contract and customer expectations
Act as liaison between the company and district leadership, school boards, parents, and students
Oversee strategic account planning, communication, and client satisfaction initiatives
Manage financial performance of assigned region including budgets, labor, and food costs
Understand and act on contract terms, identifying risks and negotiating client changes
Improve productivity and resource planning across sites
Escalate high-risk issues promptly to senior leadership
Support budget compliance and growth planning in collaboration with executive leadership
Coach and support General Managers across the region
Promote a leadership-driven culture focused on accountability and service excellence
Foster professional growth and strategic thinking within the team
Address operational issues, guide through conflict resolution, and maintain strong safety culture
Actively engage in succession planning and leadership development
Monitor performance metrics, reports, and KPIs to identify areas for improvement
Ensure GM compliance with food safety, labor, and operational policies
Partner with internal departments (HR, Payroll, Accounting, Sales) to support site needs
Direct, coordinate, and evaluate work assignments and regional operations
Promote internal collaboration, clear communication, and strong company culture