Director of Strategic Partnerships (Hospitality & Foodservice) chez Creative Dining Services

Creative Dining Services is seeking a dynamic Director of Strategic Partnerships to lead high-impact client relationships and drive operational excellence across our owner-client and strategic partner locations. This is a key leadership role based in West Michigan focused on maximizing client satisfaction, profitability, and long-term growth. This position reports directly to the SVP of Operations and will lead up to three direct reports.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as a leading expert and strategic partner to clients, aligning proactive and innovative hospitality solutions with their strategic goals.
• Lead multi-unit operations with a focus on innovation, efficiency, and guest experience.
• Drive financial performance through budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
• Develop and mentor high-performing teams and ensure succession planning.
• Conduct site visits, lead quality audits, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Champion communication, collaboration, and continuous improvement across all partnerships.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or Hospitality (Advanced degree preferred). Will consider equivalent education and experience.
• 5+ years of multi-unit leadership in hospitality or dining services. Experience with colleges and universities preferred. Executive-level management experience preferred.
• Deep understanding of hospitality operations, guest experience, and industry innovation.
• Proven success in client relations, team development, and financial management.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to think strategically and execute tactically.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM tools, and hospitality systems.
• ServSafe certification and allergen training (or willingness to obtain).
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license and ability to travel frequently.

We Offer

• Competitive pay and performance incentives
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account with a company match of up to $1500 for qualifying plans
• Free mental health support through our Employee Assistance Program
• Company-paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability
• 401(k) with a company match
• Tuition reimbursement and discounts

Why Join Us?

“Companies always tell you a lot of things about who they are and what they are about, and most are not able to meet those expectations. My experience with Creative Dining since day one has been extremely positive and the truth in advertising is spot on. The support has been wonderful, and I am excited to learn and grow with the company.” Jamie M., General Manager (Joined May 2021)

At Creative Dining, we’re passionate about people, partnerships, and performance. You’ll join a purpose-driven team that values innovation, integrity, and impact. This is your opportunity to shape the future of hospitality partnerships while growing your career in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

Creative Dining Services operates over 80 locations in 16 states, serving colleges, universities, Fortune 100 companies, full-service senior living communities, conference centers, hotels, camps, and independent K-12 schools to provide a different kind of hospitality and facility management services experience – one that’s fun, innovative, and focused on community. Why? Because that’s how it should be.

Our Core Values are:

• Integrity
• Flexibility
• Family
• Creativity
• Sensitivity
• Sustainability
• Diversity

Our team members are like family – to us and to our clients. We get to know people by name and personal preferences to provide a welcoming home away from home for our guests and for each other.

Creative Dining Services is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to treating all applicants and employees fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.