Manager Operations II

Job Title: Manager Operations II
Job Location: Des Plaines-USA-60016
Work Location Type: On-Site
Salary Range: $89,003.38 - 115,480.33

About us

LSG Sky Chefs is one of the world's largest airline catering and hospitality providers, known for its outstanding reputation and dynamic approach in the industry. Voted "Airline Caterer of the Year in North America" for 2023 and 2024, we are committed to excellence and innovation, driven by the dedication and expertise of our talented employees. Our team members are the heart and soul of our success, consistently delivering exceptional culinary experiences and outstanding service to our clients and their passengers across North and Latin America.

Role Purpose Statement

The Operations Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all aspects of daily operations to ensure the safe, efficient, and timely delivery of high-quality catering services that meet customer and airline standards. This role drives operational excellence by managing teams, optimizing processes, maintaining compliance with safety and regulatory requirements, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The Operations Manager partners closely with leadership and cross-functional teams to achieve performance, cost, and service goals while ensuring a positive employee experience.

Main Accountabilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of our catering unit, making sure flights are served on time with the highest standards of safety and quality.
• Inspire, coach, and develop your team so they can perform at their best and grow in their roles.
• Keep our operations safe and compliant with all regulations while maintaining a strong culture of food safety and workplace safety.
• Partner with other departments, Logistics, Procurement, HR, and Customer Service, to keep things running smoothly and efficiently.
• Track key performance indicators, spot opportunities, and put solutions in place to drive continuous improvement.
• Balance resources, schedules, and labor needs to control costs while delivering excellent service.
• Build a culture of teamwork, accountability, and engagement where employees feel valued.
• Lead change by supporting new processes, systems, and initiatives that improve operations and the employee experience.

• Participates in coaching the expanded Global Performance System (GPS) process, as well as additional career development activities to enhance the effectiveness and potential of the team
• Make the company's values and management principles live in the department(s)
• Plan / Implement and control the cost budget in the area of responsibility; initiate and steer corrective actions in case of deviation
• Participate and support company sponsored initiatives such as Global Quality Standard (GQS), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Lean Manufacturing, Employee Safety
  
  

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• 5+ years of operations or production management experience, ideally in food service, manufacturing, or logistics.
• Proven leadership skills with experience managing and motivating diverse teams.
• Strong knowledge of operational processes, safety standards, and regulatory compliance (FAA, OSHA, food safety a plus).
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities in fast-paced, high-volume environments.
• Skilled in workforce planning, scheduling, and cost control to balance efficiency with quality.
• Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across departments and influence at all levels.
• Comfortable with data analysis, KPIs, and continuous improvement methods to drive performance.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to thrive under pressure and manage change.

LSG Sky Chefs is an EEO and Affirmative Action Employer of Women/Minorities/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.