Food Pantry Manager

International Institute of St. Louis•St. Louis, MO

About The Position

The International Institute of St. Louis (IISTL), in collaboration with Operation Food Search, launched a community food pantry serving approximately 100 families each week. The pantry provides culturally appropriate, healthy food to New Americans and neighbors, helping individuals and families thrive while strengthening the St. Louis region. The Food Pantry Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of this successful and growing program, including operations, volunteers, partnerships, compliance, and reporting. This role works closely with community volunteers, New Americans, staff, and partner organizations. A love of people, cultural humility, and a commitment to multiculturalism are essential. The Food Pantry Manager upholds and advances the International Institute's mission, vision, goals, and values through high-quality, equitable, and dignified food access.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Social Work or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience
Minimum of five (5) years of related professional experience with increasing levels of responsibility
At least two (2) years of experience managing human service programs, including supervision of staff and/or volunteers
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Strong organizational, leadership, and team-building skills
Proven program management and strategic planning abilities
Ability to analyze complex situations, identify challenges and opportunities, and develop effective solutions
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Experience developing and managing program budgets with accountability
Understanding of nonprofit environments, including legal, ethical, and compliance standards
Genuine passion for IISTL's mission and commitment to serving diverse communities
Strong planning, organization, and attention to detail
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment

Nice To Haves

Multilingual skills preferred: Spanish, Pashto, Farsi, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, French, Arabic
Valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle (mileage reimbursement available for program-related travel)

Responsibilities

Manage and implement all key components of the Food Pantry program and oversee daily operations
Ensure the pantry meets departmental milestones, goals, and performance metrics
Monitor program impact and outcomes, using data to inform improvements
Prepare reports on program progress and outcomes for internal leadership, funders, and community stakeholders
Coordinate external evaluations and internal assessments as needed
Adhere to approved budgets and monitor program expenditures to ensure financial accountability
Collaborate with IISTL staff, community partners, and stakeholders to support program success
Assist in the development of grant applications and proposals related to food access and pantry operations
Support volunteers and staff with food ordering, stocking, and facility readiness
Assist with the recruitment, onboarding, and training of pantry volunteers
Organize workflows and delegate responsibilities to volunteers
Supervise volunteers during day-to-day pantry operations, especially on Fridays
Provide constructive feedback and ongoing support to volunteers
Foster a collaborative, team-oriented environment through regular meetings and training
Ensure the pantry facility is clean, safe, welcoming, and culturally responsive
Engage with community members related to pantry initiatives and food access projects
Develop and maintain knowledge of food resources and food insecurity trends in the region
Participate in departmental and organizational meetings and events
Perform other duties as assigned to support the successful operation of the Food Pantry and IISTL