Executive Director, Facilities Operations

Sodexo is seeking an Executive Director of Facilities Operations who will serve as the senior leader and primary account manager for a large, complex portfolio of sites, overseeing integrated facilities management across both hard and soft services. This role demands a seasoned executive with prior experience at the Executive Director level, and a proven ability to lead transformation, mobilize new or transitioning accounts, and stabilize operations to deliver consistent, high-quality service.

Leading a team of experienced Facilities Directors, this individual will drive operational excellence through self-performed services supported by subcontractors. The role requires strong financial acumen and deep experience managing large-scale budgets, along with expertise in contract management and performance optimization. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with exceptional communication skills and a demonstrated ability to engage senior stakeholders and deliver results in dynamic, client-facing environments.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for client communication, ensuring alignment between client expectations and operational delivery through effective leadership of Facilities Directors and frontline teams.

• Provide strategic oversight for facilities operations, including capital planning, system upgrades, and emergency management, ensuring code compliance and operational resilience across all sites.

• Lead and develop high-performing teams, including managers, tradespeople, and directors, with a focus on performance management, workforce planning, and employee safety.

• Oversee financial planning and management for large-scale budgets, including forecasting, cost control, and optimization initiatives such as energy efficiency and capital investment planning.

• Act as a key liaison with regulatory agencies, architects, engineers, and contractors, ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations while supporting design, renovation, and maintenance projects.

• Evaluate and enhance existing programs, services, and policies; recommend and implement improvements that drive operational excellence, efficiency, and client satisfaction.

• Foster a culture of safety and compliance by leading safety programs, conducting audits, and ensuring ongoing staff training and adherence to safety protocols.

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:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
• 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or a minimum of 7 years of equivalent leadership experience in facilities management or operations.
• Proven experience in a senior facilities leadership role, with prior success as an Executive Director or equivalent position overseeing large-scale, multi-site operations.

• Demonstrated ability to lead complex account transitions, drive operational transformation, and stabilize service delivery in dynamic, client-facing environments.

• Deep knowledge of facilities management across hard and soft services, including capital planning, regulatory compliance, safety oversight, and emergency preparedness.

• Strong financial and business acumen, with experience managing large operational budgets, optimizing resources, and driving cost-efficiency initiatives.

• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to lead diverse teams, influence at all levels, and build trusted client relationships.

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 - 7 years

Minimum Functional Experience- 7 years in facilities management, engineering, management of business/operations service in both soft and hard facilities services