Executive Director, Facilities Operations

Sodexo Careers•Summerville, SC

10d

About The Position

Sodexo is seeking an Executive Director of Facilities Operations who will serve as the senior leader and primary account manager for a large, complex portfolio of sites, overseeing integrated facilities management across both hard and soft services. This role demands a seasoned executive with prior experience at the Executive Director level, and a proven ability to lead operations to deliver consistent, high-quality service. 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. 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 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.
Minimum Education Requirement - Bachelor ’s Degree or equivalent experience
Minimum Management Experience - 7 years
Minimum Functional Experience- 7 years in facilities management, engineering, management of business/operations service in both soft and hard facilities services

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.