Take Your Leadership to the Next Level
Sodexo’s Campus Segment is seeking a dynamic and experienced Retail Operations Manager to lead all catering and event operations at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut.
This role is responsible for the successful planning, execution, and oversight of a wide range of campus events—from intimate meetings and student functions to high-profile executive banquets. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with strong operational and customer service skills.
Direct all campus catering, banquet, and event operations, ensuring flawless execution and client satisfaction.
Collaborate closely with the Catering Manager and Executive Chef to align on menus, staffing, and event logistics.
Supervise a dedicated catering team, ensuring high performance and adherence to Sodexo quality and service standards.
Partner with the campus Women of Influence (WOI) and other stakeholders to maintain positive client relationships.
Manage logistics for events of all sizes, including scheduling, staffing, setup, service, and breakdown.
Ensure excellence in food presentation, service delivery, and customer experience.
Maintain accurate budgets, schedules, and vendor partnerships to support smooth event operations.
Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.
A passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences
A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in catering, events, or food service management
Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to motivate and manage both front- and back-of-house teams
Exceptional organizational abilities and attention to detail, especially under pressure
The ability to collaborate effectively across departments, including culinary, service, and client partners
A customer-first mindset with a commitment to exceeding expectations
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a professional and polished demeanor
Flexibility and problem-solving skills to adapt to the unexpected and deliver seamless events
A valid driver’s license and comfort managing vendor and transportation logistics
Prior union experience (preferred, but not required)
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.
Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.
Minimum Education Requirement - Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience
Minimum Management Experience - 3 years
Minimum Functional Experience - 3 years of experience in retail operations