Executive Director, Facilities Operations

Sodexo • Rahway, NJ

94d

About The Position

Sodexo is seeking an experienced Executive Director of Facilities Operations to serve as the senior leader and primary account manager for a major pharmaceutical client in Rahway, New Jersey, overseeing a complex portfolio of sites and delivering integrated facilities management across both hard and soft services. This role requires a seasoned executive with proven experience at the Executive Director level and a demonstrated ability to lead large-scale transformations, mobilize new or transitioning accounts, and stabilize operations to ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery. Leading a team of experienced Facilities Directors, this individual will drive operational excellence through self-performed services supported by subcontractors. The role requires strong financial acumen and deep experience managing large-scale budgets, along with expertise in contract management and performance optimization. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with exceptional communication skills and a demonstrated ability to engage senior stakeholders and deliver results in dynamic, client-facing environments. This is a fully on-site position in Rahway, New Jersey.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or a minimum of 7 years of equivalent leadership experience in facilities management or operations.
• Proven experience in a senior facilities leadership role, with prior success as an Executive Director or equivalent position overseeing large-scale, multi-site operations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex account transitions, drive operational transformation, and stabilize service delivery in dynamic, client-facing environments.
• Deep knowledge of facilities management across hard and soft services, including capital planning, regulatory compliance, safety oversight, and emergency preparedness.
• Strong financial and business acumen, with experience managing large operational budgets, optimizing resources, and driving cost-efficiency initiatives.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to lead diverse teams, influence at all levels, and build trusted client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for client communication, ensuring alignment between client expectations and operational delivery through effective leadership of Facilities Directors and frontline teams.
• Provide strategic oversight for facilities operations, including capital planning, system upgrades, and emergency management, ensuring code compliance and operational resilience across all sites.
• Lead and develop high-performing teams, including managers, tradespeople, and directors, with a focus on performance management, workforce planning, and employee safety.
• Oversee financial planning and management for large-scale budgets, including forecasting, cost control, and optimization initiatives such as energy efficiency and capital investment planning.
• Act as a key liaison with regulatory agencies, architects, engineers, and contractors, ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations while supporting design, renovation, and maintenance projects.
• Evaluate and enhance existing programs, services, and policies; recommend and implement improvements that drive operational excellence, efficiency, and client satisfaction.
• Foster a culture of safety and compliance by leading safety programs, conducting audits, and ensuring ongoing staff training and adherence to safety protocols.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
• 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Food Services and Drinking Places
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree