Director of Food Service
Overview
Central Market is a specialty grocery that started in Austin, Texas in 1994, and has grown to multiple locations across the state. What makes Central Market one of the freshest markets in the country - Try a sumptuous selection of everything edible, for starters. We go straight to the source to bring you the finest food and drink the world has to offer. With hundreds of cheeses, thousands of wines, acres of produce, and aisles of experts, Central Market is a foodie’s wonderland. Our commitment beyond the plate is another reason we’re a cut above. We believe food is a way of uniting families and communities, of preserving cultures, and of starting new traditions. Each of our stores is a market in the truest sense and is a place to exchange goods, services, and ideas for those really into food.
Position Summary
The Director of Food Service leads the execution and performance of all Food Service operations, including Prepared Foods, Kitchen, Bakery, Deli, Cheese, Coffee Bar, and Café. This role is responsible for delivering a best-in-class culinary experience while driving sales, profitability, and operational excellence. This leader partners closely with Store Leadership and Support teams to ensure consistent execution, high-quality food production, and an elevated customer experience that differentiates Central Market.
Key Responsibilities
Business & Financial
- Own and drive sales, margin, labor, and shrink performance across all Food Service departments
- Analyze financial performance and implement strategies to improve profitability and efficiency
- Partner with merchandising and culinary teams to optimize assortment, pricing, and production
Operations
- Ensure consistent execution of food production, quality, and presentation standards
- Drive best practices in production planning, labor management, and inventory control
- Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and regulatory standards
Merchandising / Customer
- Elevate the Food Service experience through innovative, chef-driven offerings
- Ensure exceptional product quality, freshness, and in-store presentation
- Deliver a high-touch, hospitality-driven customer experience
Leadership
- Lead, coach, and develop department managers and culinary leaders
- Build a strong bench through talent development and succession planning
- Foster a culture aligned with Central Market and H-E-B values
Cross-Functional
- Partner with Store Directors, Merchants, and Support teams to align strategy and execution
- Support new store openings, remodels, and concept innovation
- Collaborate with enterprise leaders to continuously improve Food Service performance
Qualifications
- 8–12+ years of leadership experience in Food Service, Prepared Foods, or Culinary Operations
- Multi-unit or high-volume single-unit leadership experience preferred
- Strong financial acumen (sales, margin, labor, shrink)
- Deep understanding of food production, culinary execution, and quality standards
- Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams
- Passion for food, hospitality, and customer experience
What Success Looks Like
- Strong sales growth and improved profitability across Food Service departments
- Consistent execution of high-quality, chef-driven food offerings
- High-performing teams with a strong leadership pipeline
- A differentiated, best-in-class customer experience