Director of Food Services

Job Details: Job Location: Headquarters

• Chicago, IL, Salary Range: $75000.00 - $90000.00Salary/year, Position Summary Safe Haven is seeking a mission‑driven Director of Food Service to lead all aspects of meal operations for our residential and drop‑in programs. The Director ensures high‑quality, nutritious, trauma‑informed food service that reflects dignity, respect, and compassion for individuals experiencing homelessness or crisis.

Key Responsibilities

Food Service Leadership — Oversee daily kitchen operations, meal production, scheduling, and service standards. Menu & Nutrition Planning — Develop menus that meet nutritional guidelines and accommodate dietary restrictions. Staff & Volunteer Management — Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate kitchen staff and volunteers.

Budget & Inventory Oversight — Manage food service budget, track expenses, and maintain inventory systems. Safety & Compliance — Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and maintain sanitation standards. Community Partnerships — Build relationships with donors, food banks, and vendors to support sustainable food sourcing.

Strategic Planning — Implement long‑term improvements to food quality, efficiency, and guest experience. Guest Experience — Foster a welcoming, trauma‑informed dining environment for all guests. Required Qualifications Food Service Management Experience — 5–7 years in food service leadership, ideally in nonprofit or institutional settings.

Leadership Skills — Proven ability to lead diverse teams and manage volunteers. Food Safety Certification — Serv. Safe Manager or equivalent. Budget & Operations Skills — Experience with budgeting, procurement, and inventory control. Trauma-Informed Approach — Commitment to compassionate, guest‑centered service. Communication Skills — Strong interpersonal and cross‑department collaboration abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

Nonprofit Experience — Experience in shelters, transitional housing, or community meal programs. Nutrition Knowledge — Understanding of dietary needs for vulnerable populations. Grant & Donor Engagement — Experience supporting fundraising or in‑kind donation programs. Qualifications: