AVP - Operations (Retail)

"Sodexo promotes an inclusive and diverse workplace and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds."

Who we are

At Sodexo, we offer 100+ service solutions across diverse sectors- corporates, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and remote environments. From food & catering to facilities management and energy services, we enhance the quality of life for those we serve. Our inclusive, diverse, and equitable work environment empowers employees to thrive and make a meaningful impact. With a strong foundation in our values of Service Spirit, Team Spirit, and Spirit of Progress, working at Sodexo is more than just a job - it’s a chance to be part of something bigger.

Join us and act with purpose every day!

About the Role

The Head of Retail will lead the strategic and operational management of all retail food service outlets across client sites, ensuring excellence in service delivery, innovation in food concepts, and alignment with business growth objectives. This role is pivotal in transforming cafeteria experiences into scalable, profitable, and customer-centric solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a retail strategy aligned with organizational goals for B2B food services.
• Lead transformation initiatives across cafeteria formats (cafeterias, kiosks, food halls, food courts , hybrid models).
• Collaborate with marketing, culinary, and operations teams to co-create branded food concepts, thematic counters, trending food experiences and celebratory offers.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee daily operations of all retail food outlets, ensuring consistency, compliance, and quality.
• Implement standardized operating procedures across sites for food safety, hygiene, and customer service.
• Drive digitization and real-time analytics for consumption, inventory, and feedback using data and AI tools.

Performance & Financial Management

• Grow the business across different markets, segments and formats.
• Monitor and optimize P&L performance, cost structures, and resource allocation across cafeterias.
• Forecast sales, track KPIs, and lead initiatives to improve profitability and reduce wastage.

Team Development & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead and mentor a team of site managers, chefs, and retail staff across multiple geographies.
• Act as the SME and point of contact for clients, internal stakeholders, and vendor partners.
• Support mobilization and onboarding of new sites, including training and compliance.

Key Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, Business Administration, or Food Services Management.
• 15+ years of experience in retail food operations, preferably in B2B or institutional settings.
• Proven track record in scaling food service models, managing multi-store operations, and leading transformation projects.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations, customer experience design, and digital tools for retail analytics.

Why SODEXO:

• Healthy Work-Life Balance

• Leadership Development

• Global Career Opportunities

• Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Inclusive Culture

• Competitive Compensation

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness Benefits