Area Director (District Manager), Higher Education

Job overview

The Area Director (District Manager), Higher Education role is based near a major airport within the higher education portfolio footprint; the listing is based in Zeeland, MI. The posting describes competitive compensation but does not specify numeric pay. Creative Dining Services is building relationships with candidates for a future opportunity; timing depends on business growth and new partnerships. Reporting to the Regional Vice President of Operations, the Area Director will lead a multi-state portfolio of campus dining programs, develop Food Service Directors, strengthen client partnerships, and oversee operational and financial performance. The role supports campus dining experiences and the company’s higher education growth.

What you'll do

• Coach and develop Food Service Directors and campus leaders
• maintain client relationships
• oversee food quality, culinary and marketing standards, guest satisfaction, safety, and hospitality programs
• monitor financial performance and key metrics
• develop action plans
• support talent pipelines and succession planning
• and partner with campus leaders on dining program improvements.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

area director

district manager

creative dining services

higher education

campus dining

multi-site leadership

client partnerships

food service directors

operational excellence

financial performance

75–80% travel

future opportunity

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Performance-based bonus opportunities, medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, professional development and leadership training, career advancement opportunities, and employee support and wellness benefits.

Why this role

This is a future-opportunity posting, not an immediate opening. The role is expected to involve approximately 75–80% travel, including overnight travel, across multiple campus locations.

About the employer

Creative Dining Services is hiring for this role. Industry: Food Service Contractors. Sector: 72.