General Manager (Food Services)

Salary Range: $85,000 to $95,000. 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.

Position Title: General Manager (Food Services)

Location: SFU Burnaby Campus

Reports To: Resident District Manager

Role Summary

The General Manager – Dining Commons is accountable for the leadership, performance, and strategic direction of Simon Fraser University’s Dining Commons. The role oversees all aspects of the operation including budgeting, financial management and weekly analysis, implementation and ongoing success of both front‑of‑house and back‑of‑house operations, ensuring seamless service delivery, culinary excellence, client satisfaction, and financial accountability. The General Manager works in close partnership with the Resident District Manager, the Culinary Director, the Executive Chef, and other Compass departments, fostering collaboration to deliver a best‑in‑class dining program that enhances the student, faculty, and staff experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage client relations and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Provide staff management, including scheduling, training, coaching and performance reviews.
• Plan and manage menu, merchandising, and culinary standards.
• Implement and monitor quality assurance, health, safety, and environmental programs.
• Lead and inspire a team of managers and unionized associates.
• Maintain a strong visible presence and engage staff during meal periods.
• Build and maintain a culture of respect, accountability, and open communication.
• Conduct regular pre‑shift huddles, staff meetings, and weekly manager reviews.
• Resolve conflicts, working with HR/LR as required.
• Develop and enforce service standards to deliver a student‑centered dining experience.
• Monitor service flow, guest interactions and staff performance during operating hours.
• Ensure adequate coverage and staffing during peak hours.
• Respond promptly to guest feedback and client concerns.
• Partner with culinary leadership on menu planning, product quality and innovation.
• Collaborate with marketing to create engaging dining experiences.
• Maintain strong relationships with SFU stakeholders, representing Compass Group at committee meetings.
• Oversee all dining operations in accordance with Compass Group and SFU standards.
• Manage financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, WORrior reporting, variance analysis, and payroll.
• Ensure accurate scheduling aligned with the collective agreement.
• Maintain audit compliance: food safety, cash handling, inventory management, pricing updates.
• Ensure 100% compliance with training, certification, allergen protocols and Health & Safety standards.

Qualifications

• Post‑secondary education and at least 5 years of progressive management experience in high‑volume food service or hospitality.
• Proven success in managing large, diverse teams (unionized and non‑unionized).
• Advanced Food Service Training (AFST) or ability to obtain.
• Health & Safety Level 1 & 2 certification (or willingness to obtain within 90 days).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word); POS knowledge an asset.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting and variance management.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and client‑relationship skills.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation and multi‑unit dining operations.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced campus environment.

Working Conditions

• Primarily weekday schedule with flexibility for evenings, weekends and holidays.
• On‑site leadership presence required at the SFU Dining Commons.

Success Profile

• Operations consistently deliver an exceptional student and faculty dining experience.
• Strong, collaborative relationships with Resident District Manager, Culinary Director and client.
• Financial targets and compliance standards are met or exceeded.
• Staff are engaged, motivated and performing at high levels.

Benefits

• SFU Tuition Waiver Program for associates and eligible family members up to age 25.
• Comprehensive health, vision and dental coverage.
• Access to mental health and wellness resources, including an Employment Assistance Program.

EEO and Diversity Statement

Compass Group Canada is committed to nurturing a diverse workforce representative of the communities within which we operate. We encourage and are pleased to consider all qualified candidates, without regard to race, colour, citizenship, religion, sex, marital / family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, aboriginal status, age, disability or persons who may require an accommodation.

For accommodation requests during the hiring process, please contact View email address on ca.talent.com for further information.