The salary range for this position starts at $53,000. Final compensation will be determined based on relevant skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity. In addition to base salary, eligible employees may be entitled to other elements of total compensation, which may include group benefits, employer RRSP contributions, and discretionary bonus or incentive programs, where applicable to the role. We are committed to offering competitive compensation and comply with all applicable pay transparency legislation. Further details regarding our total rewards program will be shared by the Talent Acquisition team during the hiring process. Canadian work experience is not a requirement for this role. Please note that artificial intelligence–based tools may be used at certain stages of the recruitment and applicant screening process. This is a posting for an existing job vacancy.
As a key member of the operations leadership team, the Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day leadership, execution, and performance of assigned food service units. The role ensures strong operational standards, financial discipline, food safety, and people leadership while delivering a consistent, high-quality experience aligned with Compass Group standards and client expectations.
Now, if you were to come on board as one of our Operations Managers, we’d ask you to do the following for us:
Strategic Leadership & Growth
- Execute district and regional priorities at the unit level, supporting account retention, service enhancements, and local growth opportunities.
- Participate in new initiatives, pilots, renovations, openings, and transitions, ensuring operational readiness and effective implementation.
- Support catering, special events, and merchandising initiatives in alignment with contract requirements and sector strategies.
Operational & Financial Excellence
- Lead daily unit operations with a strong focus on labour management, cost control, inventory accuracy, purchasing discipline, and financial performance.
- Maintain accurate operational and financial data to support forecasting, budgeting, period end reviews, and action planning.
- Identify variances, risks, and opportunities, and implement corrective actions to improve sales, profitability, and operational consistency.
- Ensure compliance with pricing, cash handling, asset management, and financial control standards.
Client & Stakeholder Relations
- Build positive working relationships with site-level clients, principals, and operational stakeholders.
- Ensure day-to-day execution of contract commitments and respond promptly and professionally to client requests and concerns.
- Gather and communicate operational information related to school activities, events, closures, construction, and special programs.
People Leadership & Development
- Lead, coach, and support supervisors and hourly associates through onboarding, training, performance management, and recognition.
- Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and respect through consistent application of people policies and progressive discipline when required.
- Support performance appraisals, succession planning, and ongoing development of unit leadership teams.
Health, Safety, Compliance & Continuous Improvement
- Champion a safe and compliant work environment by ensuring adherence to food safety, sanitation, health & safety, and quality assurance standards.
- Conduct regular safety walks and audits; ensure incidents, recalls, and corrective actions are reported, documented, and closed in a timely manner.
- Maintain readiness for inspections, audits, and unit or school closures, escalating issues appropriately.
- Promote continuous improvement through standard operating practices and company performance frameworks.
Field Leadership & Unit Presence
- Maintain regular presence in units to observe meal service, assess standards, coach teams, and resolve operational issues in real time.
- Monitor portion control, merchandising, vending, catering execution, and customer experience to ensure consistency and quality.
- Support staffing coverage, scheduling, and operational continuity to prevent service disruptions.
Systems, Tools & Ways of Working
- Use company systems, reports, and technology to track performance, maintain accurate records, and support informed decision-making.
- Support training initiatives, technology adoption, and pilot programs that enhance operational effectiveness.
- Maintain professional standards, including timely communication, accurate documentation, and adherence to dress code and workplace expectations.
Think you have what it takes to be our Operations Manager? We’re committed to hiring the best talent for the role. Here’s how we’ll know you’ll be successful in the role.
- 5+ years of experience in food service or hospitality operations, including supervisory or management responsibility.
- Strong operational and financial understanding, including labour management, inventory control, and cost awareness.
- Proven ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and solve problems in a fast-paced, field-based environment.
- Strong communication, organization, and client service skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and comfort learning new systems and technology.
- Ability to travel between sites as required.
- Any other duties assigned or consistent with organizational needs.
What You’ll Bring
You are a hands-on, detail-oriented operations leader who thrives in the field. You take ownership of daily execution, support your teams through coaching and clear expectations, and consistently deliver safe, compliant, and high-quality food service. You are proactive, organized, and committed to continuous improvement.
