General Manager

Princeton University•Princeton, NJ

8d•$123,000 - $144,000

About The Position

Princeton University is seeking an accomplished General Manager to launch and lead the dining operation for its newest residential college. The role offers the opportunity to build a program from the ground up and develop a welcoming dining community where students, faculty, and staff can connect. The General Manager brings operational expertise, develops high-performing teams, and supports an exceptional dining experience. Reporting to the Associate Director, the General Manager oversees all aspects of the dining facility, including hiring, training, and managing frontline associates. In collaboration with the Executive Chef, the General Manager oversees the dining program, menus, and meal plans. The position applies operational knowledge to identify and implement changes informed by food service trends, culinary objectives, and sustainability practices, while helping team members contribute to a high-quality culinary program that meets or exceeds customer expectations. This is an essential personnel role requiring a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. The position has 36.25 standard weekly hours, is not eligible for overtime, and requires a valid driver's license and car. A cover letter is required for full consideration.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Foodservice/Hospitality Management or equivalent.
At least 8 years of progressive leadership or management experience in the hospitality or food service industry.
Knowledge of New Jersey State health department rules and regulations.
ServSafe certification, or ability to obtain and maintain certification.
Experience managing in a union environment.
Ensure compliance with state, local, and university food safety, workplace safety, and HACCP policies and procedures.
Ability to build a cohesive team and implement policies and procedures that maintain service standards.
Demonstrated strong leadership skills, including the ability to influence teams, drive results, and foster a positive work environment.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Knowledge and experience with computerized food production systems.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Valid driver's license and access to a car.
Meet the listed physical requirements, including standing and walking, lifting and carrying items up to 50 pounds, pushing and pulling, bending and reaching, working in varied temperatures, and maintaining physical agility and balance.

Responsibilities

Respond quickly to changing business needs and priorities while balancing strategic thinking with tactical implementation.
Provide excellent customer service and recommend improvements to dining and services based on patron feedback.
Assist in developing and implementing innovative programs supporting food production, preparation, distribution, and sustainability.
Support or work in other Campus Dining units as assigned.
Recruit, train, schedule, and manage the performance of unit staff.
Collaborate effectively with team members and union leadership to deliver services to the campus community.
Maintain sanitation and safety standards in compliance with health and safety regulations, and oversee unit QA/QC and safety programs.
Promote a safe work environment by addressing hazards, investigating and reporting incidents, enforcing safety rules and procedures, and working with Environmental Health and Safety to provide training.
Manage unit-level financial performance, including operating budgets, food and labor costs, purchasing, inventory controls, billing, payroll, and accounting procedures.
Partner with Campus Dining administrative and finance teams on budget planning, forecasting, reforecasting, and responsible stewardship of university resources.
Plan and execute large-scale university events, including reunions and commencement.
Support Campus Dining and University Services initiatives, including sustainability, wellness, and events.
Lead change and continuous process improvement.
Complete other duties as assigned.