Regional Director of Dining Services (KS, NE, MO)

About the Role

The Regional Dining Services Director reports to the Corporate Executive Chef and is responsible for the oversight, training, and support of Dining Services departments across assigned Cedarhurst communities. This role partners with Executive Directors and the regional team to ensure every community meets Cedarhurst standards for food quality, presentation, service, safety, and budget performance. Frequent weekly travel across assigned communities (KS, NE, MO) is required and includes an auto and phone allowance.

Responsibilities

• Provide support and knowledge to Executive Directors with interviewing and screening process for new Dining Services Directors (DSDs).
• Continuous training and follow-up with incoming and tenured Dining Services Directors on all vendor accounts, menu systems, budgets, and Cedarhurst Dining programs.
• Maintain consistent supervision of community Dining Service departments as assigned.
• Ensure the Quality Assurance schedule is followed at assigned communities.
• Ensure adherence to all FDA, State, County, and Local health department guidelines on a shift-by-shift basis.
• Ensure all DSDs and staff have current food safety certifications as required.
• Oversee assigned departments for menu, presentation, and service standards compliance.
• Coordinate with the RDO and Executive Directors for budgetary compliance.
• Produce and distribute a Community Site Visit report at each visit and follow up on noted topics with the Executive Director and DSD.
• Ensure completion of all daily food safety checks, including food temperature logs, refrigeration logs, titration logs, and cleaning logs.
• Coordinate sampling of meals at assigned communities to ensure food meets quality standards.
• Oversee dining service during meal periods to maintain a “restaurant quality” atmosphere.
• Train all Dining Services leaders and team members on proper food quality and presentation techniques.
• Coordinate the planning and implementation of the Pre-Opening process for new communities, including staffing, preparing dining spaces, communicating with health departments, coordinating vendor schedules, and installing Cedarhurst systems.
• Provide ongoing support for customizing and enhancing standards, guidelines, logs, and checklists.
• Assist in facilitating and attending community Food Focus Groups, resident Council Meetings, and other resident groups.
• Ensure quality ordering standards are met for all food purchases.
• Maintain safety standards as outlined by Cedarhurst guidelines for infection control.
• Assist with inter-departmental events for holidays, activities, and celebrations.
• Available to travel as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Corporate Executive Chef.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree or accredited culinary training.
• 2-5 years of experience in dining services.
• Three (3) years of dining experience in a senior care community with proven leadership and organizational skills.
• State-required food preparation license.
• ServSafe® certification.
• Applicable State licensure.
• Collaborative team player able to establish effective working relationships.
• Previous staff management and/or coaching and mentoring experience.
• Demonstrated experience promoting a high level of customer service and hospitality.
• Appreciation of seniors and understanding of the aging process.
• General knowledge of laws and restrictions regarding Assisted Living care.
• Valid driver’s license and vehicle.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package, including medical insurance, life insurance, long-term disability coverage, and a 401(k) plan with company match (after one year of service).
• Access to Cedarhurst’s St. Louis Home Office, including an on-site gym with new equipment, personal training, group classes, and stretching sessions.
• Catered lunches and regular team events at the Home Office.
• Auto and phone allowance to support a mobile, travel-based role.
• Meaningful opportunities to build relationships with residents, families, and team members across multiple communities.

Working Conditions

• Frequent walking or standing for extended periods and moving throughout the community, resident apartments, and other areas.
• May occasionally be required to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, or balance.
• Must communicate effectively and identify/interpret written information.
• May need to lift up to fifty (50) pounds independently and up to 200 pounds with assistance.
• Must follow all infection prevention and control protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Actively participate in staff activities to foster teamwork, unity, and morale.
• Stay current on all training and ongoing education initiatives.