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What does a Food Service Director do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A food service director is responsible for the overall management of a food service department. This includes menu planning, purchasing, food preparation, and staff supervision. They may also be responsible for budgeting and financial record keeping.

Food Service Director job duties include:

  • Direct the food service operations of a hospital, school, restaurant, or other institution
  • Plan menus and order food and supplies
  • Supervise the work of cooks and other kitchen staff
  • Inspect kitchens and food service areas to ensure cleanliness and proper functioning
  • Train new kitchen staff in cooking and food safety procedures
  • Investigate complaints about food quality or service
  • Develop marketing plans to promote the food service operation
  • Monitor budget and control costs
  • Meet with clients or customers to discuss their needs or concerns
  • Prepare reports on the food service operation's performance

Food Service Director Job Requirements

Most food service directors have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as hotel and restaurant management, nutrition, or dietetics. Many directors also have certification from the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation or other organizations. Food service directors typically have several years of experience working in the food service industry in a variety of positions before becoming a director.

Food Service Director Skills

  • Food service
  • Food preparation
  • Food safety
  • Sanitation
  • Customer service
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Communication
  • Organizational
  • Budgeting
  • Scheduling

Related: Top Food Service Director Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Food Service Director

The food service director is responsible for the overall operation of the food service department. They plan, direct, and coordinate all aspects of the food service department. They also oversee the food and beverage operations of the facility. The food service director is responsible for ensuring that all food and beverage service employees are properly trained and that they follow all safety and sanitation procedures. They also develop menus and oversee food preparation.

To become a food service director, you will need to have at least a bachelor's degree in hospitality or business management. You will also need several years of experience working in the food and beverage industry. It is also helpful to have experience working in a supervisory or managerial role.

Related: Food Service Director Resume Example

Related: Food Service Director Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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