Operations Manager

Operations Manager

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal.

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager for the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, IL.

Shedd Aquarium is one of the oldest and most respected aquariums in North America. The Aquarium cares for more than 32,000 animals, and maintains the most diverse aquatic collection in the world, with more than 1,500 species. Shedd Aquarium welcomes more than 2 million guests annually and is an economic contributor and the crown jewel of Chicago's cultural attractions.

The Operations Manager supports the General Manager and Director of Operations in leading food and beverage operations. As a key member of the leadership team, they uphold high ethical standards and drive excellence in guest service, staff engagement, and operational execution. This role oversees daily service delivery, staffing, and logistics, ensuring productivity, quality, and financial targets are consistently met. The Operations Manager plays a hands‑on role in planning and executing events, enhancing the guest experience, and fostering a collaborative and high‑performing workplace culture.

• Lead and manage food, beverage, and catering operations to ensure seamless execution of events and daily service.
• Develop and implement strategies to drive revenue growth and control costs across all operational areas.
• Collaborate with department heads to ensure alignment on service standards, staffing, and operational goals.
• Monitor and manage labor, inventory, and supply chain needs to support efficient service delivery.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and food handling regulations.
• Support the development and training of team members, promoting a culture of excellence and accountability.

• 1-2 years of leadership experience in food service operations, preferably in a high-volume or event-driven environment.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Business, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Current certifications in safe food handling and responsible alcohol service.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and operational systems (POS, inventory, scheduling).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Self-motivated, organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities.

• Able to work effectively and safely while subject to wet floors, temperature extremes and excessive noise; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds in weight; must be able to maneuver in an often tightly‑quartered environment.
• Hours may be extended or irregular to include nights, weekends and holidays.

We bring the same commitment to our team members by offering a comprehensive benefits package that begins on day one, including:

• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Coverage
• Identity Theft Protection Nation Assistance

Sodexo Live! is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.

$55,000 - $60,000 per year