Swarthmore College
Executive Director, Swarthmore Dining
Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, United States
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Human Resources
Swarthmore College
500 College Avenue
Swarthmore, PA 19081
Phone: 610-328-8397
Fax: 610-690-2040
Email: talent@swarthmore.edu
Office Hours: 8:30am - noon & 1-4:30pm (M-F)
Employment
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Executive Director, Swarthmore Dining
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Job no:
495751 Work type:
Full Time Location:
Swarthmore Categories:
Staff, Salary (Exempt), On Campus Swarthmore College is a highly selective liberal arts college located in the suburbs of Philadelphia. The College’s mission combines academic rigor with social responsibility. Swarthmore has a strong commitment to inclusive excellence and nondiscrimination, encouraging candidates who further the goal of fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The 425‑acre campus is a designated arboretum, complete with gardens, rolling lawns, a creek, wooded hills, and hiking trails in the Crum Woods. Who We Are: Swarthmore Dining is dedicated to serving our community with nutritious and satisfying food in a welcoming environment. Our mission is to offer a diverse menu that features high-quality ingredients, emphasizing locally grown and sustainably produced products. We are committed to inclusive dining by ensuring vegetarian, vegan, and accommodations for dietary restrictions are always available. As a self‑operated dining program encompassing Residential Dining, we pride ourselves on providing a work‑life balance that is often difficult to find in the restaurant industry. The opportunity: Under the general direction of the Associate Vice President of Campus Services, the Executive Director of Swarthmore Dining oversees and manages all Dining operations, including Residential Dining, Retail, Catering, Student‑run programs, and other initiatives. The role involves contributing to the vision, direction, and leadership while implementing creative solutions to meet the needs of our diverse and growing customer base. The Executive Director is responsible for long‑term strategic planning in financial, operational, marketing, and facilities areas while also managing these functions daily. Responsibilities
Operational Oversight Oversee Swarthmore Dining, including residential dining, catering, retail outlets, bakeries, and student programs, with responsibilities including staffing, customer service, inventory, marketing, allergen management, and facility upkeep. Ensure strict adherence to nutritional, health, and sanitation regulations while maintaining high operational standards in safety, food quality, and service. Apply knowledge of dining software systems to support operations, staff, and customers. Promote sustainable practices, respond to special requests, and continuously improve offerings based on trends and feedback. Strategic Planning and Projects Improve operational efficiency, customer service, food quality, and offerings by leveraging data insights and developing actionable strategies. Stay informed about new concepts, food technologies, trends, and issues within the food service industry and higher education. Develop and implement policies in areas such as meal plans, pricing, food safety, waste reduction, cash handling, menu selection, establishing service hours and locations, and quality assurance. Drive sales growth through impactful marketing strategies to enhance the experience for the campus community and its visitors. Oversee major dining events and catering logistics. Optimize kitchen and service area designs for workflow efficiency and enhanced customer experience. Develop programs that encourage student interaction and social engagement. Fiscal Stewardship Develop and implement financial plans, including annual budgets, long‑range capital planning, pricing structures, and resource deployment. Oversee vendor and contract management, including negotiations and service delivery improvement. Leadership & Team Support Build and maintain positive relationships, uphold high professional standards, and resolve conflicts effectively. Partner with Human Resources to recruit, develop, train, and retain a team of qualified dining staff. Provide guidance on departmental goal development and timely feedback regarding performance. Community Collaboration Establish effective communication channels to ensure transparency, foster collaboration, and build trust among campus stakeholders. Build relationships with local organizations, peer institutions, and associations that could serve as resources. Guide and support sustainability initiatives within the Dining Department, aligning with broader campus goals. Supervisory Responsibilities Directly supervise two Associate Directors, support the Administrative Manager, and oversee a team of managers, supervisors, dining staff, and student‑managed initiatives. Organize workflow and ensure staff understand their duties. Ensure staff have professional development plans and provide training opportunities. Conduct performance evaluations and provide timely, constructive feedback. Follow disciplinary procedures in partnership with Human Resources. Participate in supervisory training and maintain a safe, diverse, and inclusive environment. Who you are
The ideal candidate is a dynamic, inspiring, and forward‑thinking leader with significant operational, financial, and strategic experience managing college or high‑volume food service programs. Excel in staff recruitment, development, and retention while guiding teams through change. Highly tech‑savvy and data‑driven, leveraging modern technologies and customer feedback. Unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service with high standards in nutrition, safety, and hospitality. Adaptable, resilient, and thrives in fast‑paced, complex environments. Possess the vision and interpersonal skills to navigate traditions, lead change, and position Dining for future success. What you bring
Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree with at least seven years of progressively responsible leadership experience. Certifications in ServSafe or other food safety programs and/or allergen awareness. Proven expertise in production requirements, HR, and fiscal management. Experience in hiring, selecting, retaining, training, supervising, and evaluating staff. Experience in budget development and financial system management. Strong problem‑solving skills and commitment to customer service within a diverse community. Intuitive, flexible, readily available to address emerging needs. Exceptional communication skills, including public speaking and instruction. Track record of teamwork, collaboration, and partnerships. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, e‑mail, CBORD (or similar systems), recipe software, inventory and time‑keeping systems, and catering software. Knowledge of residential and retail food service programs in a college or university setting. Valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in food service administration, institutional management, nutrition, dietetics, or related field. At least ten years of supervisory and administrative experience in a high‑volume food service operation. Familiarity with restorative practices and approaches to student interactions. Physical Demands
Physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs, including transport on stairs and tight spaces. Able to perform prolonged tasks such as standing, bending, squatting, kneeling, shoveling, and using vibrating hand tools. Requires sustained hand, arm, and back strength. Working Conditions
Requires versatility, adaptability, and ability to work independently and collaboratively with a diverse team. Responsibilities demand physical stamina, attention to safety, and ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Availability for emergency response, including storm‑related duties, is required and may involve 24/7 support. The position includes scheduled weekend shifts and may require working outside of regular hours. What You Will Get
Join a team of passionate, creative people who work hard and have fun supporting the College students, faculty, and staff. Work at one of the world's most renowned liberal arts colleges, with incredible benefits and a beautiful campus. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Swarthmore College is committed to creating a culture of respect and inclusion so that every member of our community feels a sense of belonging. We actively seek and welcome candidates with diverse perspectives and experiences, and we are an Equal Opportunity Employer. The College does not discriminate based on any protected characteristic. Advertised
Nov 06 2025 Eastern Standard Time Applications close
Open until filled Clearance Requirements
PA Criminal clearance is required for all staff positions prior to the start of employment. MVR clearance is required because the position involves operating a College‑owned motor vehicle. Education verification is required because a college degree is a required qualification. Benefits
Benefit plans start at zero cost. Upon eligibility, the College contributes 10% of an employee’s salary to their retirement account. Employees are 100% vested upon participation.
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Job search by keyword
Executive Director, Swarthmore Dining
Apply now
Job no:
495751 Work type:
Full Time Location:
Swarthmore Categories:
Staff, Salary (Exempt), On Campus Swarthmore College is a highly selective liberal arts college located in the suburbs of Philadelphia. The College’s mission combines academic rigor with social responsibility. Swarthmore has a strong commitment to inclusive excellence and nondiscrimination, encouraging candidates who further the goal of fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The 425‑acre campus is a designated arboretum, complete with gardens, rolling lawns, a creek, wooded hills, and hiking trails in the Crum Woods. Who We Are: Swarthmore Dining is dedicated to serving our community with nutritious and satisfying food in a welcoming environment. Our mission is to offer a diverse menu that features high-quality ingredients, emphasizing locally grown and sustainably produced products. We are committed to inclusive dining by ensuring vegetarian, vegan, and accommodations for dietary restrictions are always available. As a self‑operated dining program encompassing Residential Dining, we pride ourselves on providing a work‑life balance that is often difficult to find in the restaurant industry. The opportunity: Under the general direction of the Associate Vice President of Campus Services, the Executive Director of Swarthmore Dining oversees and manages all Dining operations, including Residential Dining, Retail, Catering, Student‑run programs, and other initiatives. The role involves contributing to the vision, direction, and leadership while implementing creative solutions to meet the needs of our diverse and growing customer base. The Executive Director is responsible for long‑term strategic planning in financial, operational, marketing, and facilities areas while also managing these functions daily. Responsibilities
Operational Oversight Oversee Swarthmore Dining, including residential dining, catering, retail outlets, bakeries, and student programs, with responsibilities including staffing, customer service, inventory, marketing, allergen management, and facility upkeep. Ensure strict adherence to nutritional, health, and sanitation regulations while maintaining high operational standards in safety, food quality, and service. Apply knowledge of dining software systems to support operations, staff, and customers. Promote sustainable practices, respond to special requests, and continuously improve offerings based on trends and feedback. Strategic Planning and Projects Improve operational efficiency, customer service, food quality, and offerings by leveraging data insights and developing actionable strategies. Stay informed about new concepts, food technologies, trends, and issues within the food service industry and higher education. Develop and implement policies in areas such as meal plans, pricing, food safety, waste reduction, cash handling, menu selection, establishing service hours and locations, and quality assurance. Drive sales growth through impactful marketing strategies to enhance the experience for the campus community and its visitors. Oversee major dining events and catering logistics. Optimize kitchen and service area designs for workflow efficiency and enhanced customer experience. Develop programs that encourage student interaction and social engagement. Fiscal Stewardship Develop and implement financial plans, including annual budgets, long‑range capital planning, pricing structures, and resource deployment. Oversee vendor and contract management, including negotiations and service delivery improvement. Leadership & Team Support Build and maintain positive relationships, uphold high professional standards, and resolve conflicts effectively. Partner with Human Resources to recruit, develop, train, and retain a team of qualified dining staff. Provide guidance on departmental goal development and timely feedback regarding performance. Community Collaboration Establish effective communication channels to ensure transparency, foster collaboration, and build trust among campus stakeholders. Build relationships with local organizations, peer institutions, and associations that could serve as resources. Guide and support sustainability initiatives within the Dining Department, aligning with broader campus goals. Supervisory Responsibilities Directly supervise two Associate Directors, support the Administrative Manager, and oversee a team of managers, supervisors, dining staff, and student‑managed initiatives. Organize workflow and ensure staff understand their duties. Ensure staff have professional development plans and provide training opportunities. Conduct performance evaluations and provide timely, constructive feedback. Follow disciplinary procedures in partnership with Human Resources. Participate in supervisory training and maintain a safe, diverse, and inclusive environment. Who you are
The ideal candidate is a dynamic, inspiring, and forward‑thinking leader with significant operational, financial, and strategic experience managing college or high‑volume food service programs. Excel in staff recruitment, development, and retention while guiding teams through change. Highly tech‑savvy and data‑driven, leveraging modern technologies and customer feedback. Unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service with high standards in nutrition, safety, and hospitality. Adaptable, resilient, and thrives in fast‑paced, complex environments. Possess the vision and interpersonal skills to navigate traditions, lead change, and position Dining for future success. What you bring
Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree with at least seven years of progressively responsible leadership experience. Certifications in ServSafe or other food safety programs and/or allergen awareness. Proven expertise in production requirements, HR, and fiscal management. Experience in hiring, selecting, retaining, training, supervising, and evaluating staff. Experience in budget development and financial system management. Strong problem‑solving skills and commitment to customer service within a diverse community. Intuitive, flexible, readily available to address emerging needs. Exceptional communication skills, including public speaking and instruction. Track record of teamwork, collaboration, and partnerships. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, e‑mail, CBORD (or similar systems), recipe software, inventory and time‑keeping systems, and catering software. Knowledge of residential and retail food service programs in a college or university setting. Valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in food service administration, institutional management, nutrition, dietetics, or related field. At least ten years of supervisory and administrative experience in a high‑volume food service operation. Familiarity with restorative practices and approaches to student interactions. Physical Demands
Physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs, including transport on stairs and tight spaces. Able to perform prolonged tasks such as standing, bending, squatting, kneeling, shoveling, and using vibrating hand tools. Requires sustained hand, arm, and back strength. Working Conditions
Requires versatility, adaptability, and ability to work independently and collaboratively with a diverse team. Responsibilities demand physical stamina, attention to safety, and ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Availability for emergency response, including storm‑related duties, is required and may involve 24/7 support. The position includes scheduled weekend shifts and may require working outside of regular hours. What You Will Get
Join a team of passionate, creative people who work hard and have fun supporting the College students, faculty, and staff. Work at one of the world's most renowned liberal arts colleges, with incredible benefits and a beautiful campus. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Swarthmore College is committed to creating a culture of respect and inclusion so that every member of our community feels a sense of belonging. We actively seek and welcome candidates with diverse perspectives and experiences, and we are an Equal Opportunity Employer. The College does not discriminate based on any protected characteristic. Advertised
Nov 06 2025 Eastern Standard Time Applications close
Open until filled Clearance Requirements
PA Criminal clearance is required for all staff positions prior to the start of employment. MVR clearance is required because the position involves operating a College‑owned motor vehicle. Education verification is required because a college degree is a required qualification. Benefits
Benefit plans start at zero cost. Upon eligibility, the College contributes 10% of an employee’s salary to their retirement account. Employees are 100% vested upon participation.
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