Operational Excellence Director

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategies that improve operations while aligning with program goals, company standards, and contract requirements.
• Analyze workflows to identify inefficiencies and implement improvements using lean and data-driven methods.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives and create standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and accuracy across locations.
• Partner with regional and field teams to improve processes and overall performance.
• Support change management efforts to successfully implement new tools, processes, and standards.
• Oversee project execution and ensure initiatives are completed on time with measurable results.

Business Intelligence & Data Strategy

• Define and manage reporting strategies aligned with business goals.
• Build and enhance dashboards and reports that provide clear, real-time insights.
• Use data visualization and analytics tools (e.g., Power BI) to solve problems and drive improvements.
• Ensure performance metrics are accurate, scalable, and meaningful.
• Collaborate across teams to prioritize high-impact, data-driven initiatives.

Performance Monitoring & KPI Management

• Establish and track KPIs across operations, including food safety, labor, inventory, quality, and cost control.
• Develop automated dashboards and self-service reporting tools for leadership and field teams.
• Monitor trends, identify risks and opportunities, and drive timely corrective actions.
• Prepare Quarterly Business Reviews with key insights for leadership.

Process Standardization & Compliance

• Develop and maintain SOPs across all operational areas.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards, federal contracts, and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct audits and operational reviews to ensure adherence and identify improvements.
• Support safety initiatives and maintain alignment with company safety standards.

Technology & Systems Ownership

• Lead improvements to operational systems and tools, including production, inventory, and reporting platforms.
• Translate business needs into system enhancements in partnership with IT and technology teams.
• Manage pilot programs and support successful rollout of new technologies.
• Evaluate and implement equipment and technology to improve efficiency and safety.

Labor, Inventory & Cost Optimization

• Improve labor models to balance staffing needs with cost efficiency.
• Optimize inventory practices to reduce waste and improve utilization.
• Partner with finance and operations to manage budgets and improve margins.
• Identify logistics and warehousing improvements to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Data Science, Information Systems, Business, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in operational excellence, continuous improvement, business intelligence, or a closely related field, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Military experience required - active duty, reserve, or direct professional experience working with or within a military installation environment.
• Familiarity with the operational structure, compliance expectations, and tempo of a federal food service or contracting environment is essential.
• Demonstrated expertise in lean methodologies, Six Sigma principles, and change management strategies.
• Hands-on experience with data visualization and business intelligence tools, including Power BI or equivalent platforms.
• Strong project management skills with a proven track record of leading complex, cross-functional initiatives to measurable results.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and executive presentation skills.
• Ability to influence, collaborate, and motivate teams across a geographically dispersed, matrix organization.
• Willingness to travel up to 50% to military installations and Aramark operational sites nationwide.

Preferred

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification; Lean certification a plus.
• PMP or equivalent project management certification.
• Experience with Department of Defense (DoD) food service contracts or Government Food Service (GFS) programs.
• Familiarity with military dining operations, DFAC standards, or federal food service compliance requirements.
• Prior experience with Aramark, Sodexo, Compass, or a large managed services food service company.
• Experience with food production software, inventory management platforms, or enterprise operational systems in a food service environment.