Service Manager (Front of House)

Creative Dining Services•Grand Rapids, MI

5d•$55,000 - $65,000

About The Position

Creative Dining Services is seeking a Service Manager to lead front-of-house operations at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This people-focused leadership role is responsible for creating a welcoming environment where customers feel valued and the service team feels supported. Working alongside the Food Service Director, the Service Manager leads and develops the front-of-house service team, oversees daily service activities, and helps ensure the dining experience is welcoming, organized, safe, and consistently aligned with Creative Dining Services standards. The role also contributes to the broader dining services program and works collaboratively with the management team to continually improve the experience.

Requirements

At least three years of management and leadership experience, including experience leading a team of 20 or more employees.
Experience in food service, hospitality, customer service, or a related environment.
ServSafe certification.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with customers and team members.
Demonstrated ability to train, coach, motivate, and hold employees accountable.

Nice To Haves

College degree, preferably in Hospitality, Business, or a related field.
Experience working in a college or university dining environment.
Experience with special events, marketing initiatives, customer satisfaction programs, or hospitality programming.

Responsibilities

Lead, train, coach, and develop the front-of-house service team, fostering a positive and accountable team culture.
Participate in hiring, scheduling, timekeeping, performance evaluations, and disciplinary processes for service staff.
Under the direction of the Food Service Director, supervise and coordinate daily front-of-house service activities.
Maintain standards for customer service, food presentation, cleanliness, organization, and overall dining presentation.
Ensure menu offerings are communicated clearly and attractively, with appropriate attention to customers’ special dietary needs.
Implement Creative Dining Services marketing initiatives and maintain accurate records and summaries for special events and promotional activities.
Ensure service supplies and materials are maintained at appropriate levels and available for daily operations and special events.
Monitor service equipment and ensure it is properly maintained and functioning effectively.
Build professional relationships with customers, client partners, staff, vendors, and the community.
Monitor customer satisfaction through surveys, comment cards, and direct feedback; respond to concerns and identify opportunities for improvement.
Participate in Food Committee meetings and collaborate with the management team to improve the dining experience.
Assist with other aspects of the dining services program as needed and contribute to a collaborative management team.