Retail Director- Virginia State University

The Retail Director at Virginia State University is responsible for leading the strategic planning, execution, and oversight of all campus retail dining operations. This includes managing multiple retail outlets such as cafés, coffee shops, and grab-and-go locations to deliver exceptional customer experiences that align with the college’s dining vision. The Retail Director ensures operational efficiency, financial performance, and compliance with food safety and company standards. They lead a team of managers and frontline staff, foster strong client relationships, and innovate menus, marketing, and service models to meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and campus guests. This role plays a key part in enhancing campus life through vibrant, student-centered dining experiences.

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance retail offerings, drive sales, and optimize customer experience.
• Oversee daily retail operations, including inventory management, product merchandising, and pricing strategies.
• Collaborate with vendors to source high-quality products and negotiate favorable terms to maximize profitability.
• Analyze sales data, customer feedback, and market trends to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Lead and mentor a retail team, fostering a positive work environment, and ensuring staff deliver excellent customer service.

Physical Requirements – Retail Director

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time (up to 8–10 hours per shift).
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting to perform service and operational duties.
• Must be able to lift, push, or pull up to 25–30 pounds regularly and occasionally up to 50 pounds .
• Manual dexterity to handle kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and office technology.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced food service environment, including exposure to hot surfaces, sharp objects, and varying temperatures (kitchen, dining room, and storage areas).
• Adequate vision, hearing, and verbal communication to interact with team members, guests, and vendors.
• Flexibility to work varying shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as business needs require.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Marketing, or related field; advanced degree is a plus.
• Proven experience in retail management, with a track record of driving sales and achieving financial targets.
• Pass a background check.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret data and make informed decisions.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
• Knowledge of industry trends, customer preferences, and the ability to adapt strategies accordingly.
• Fast-paced, dynamic college dining environment with multiple retail locations.
• Frequently works in both office and food service settings (e.g., kitchens, cafés, serving areas).
• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; talk or hear; and taste or smell.
• The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Frequent use of hands for computer work, documentation, and communication.

Competitive Benefits:

• Health/Dental/Vision
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k), matched up to 4%
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Tuition Reimbursement

• Employee Referral Program
• Pet Insurance
• Discounts: Hotels, Travel, Tickets, Restaurants
• Employees and their relatives are eligible for a discounted meal plan at any of our HBCU client locations while they are attending school

Who We Are:

Virginia State University (VSU) is a historically Black university located in Petersburg, Virginia, USA. Founded in 1882, it has a long history of providing education and opportunities to African American students. VSU offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing academic excellence, research, and community engagement, and it continues to play a vital role in empowering students and contributing to the advancement of society.

Thompson Hospitality is of the largest restaurants, food service, and facilities management companies in the country. We are highly built upon our values, do the right thing, do the best you can, and treat others how you want to be treated, which are shaped by more than 33 years of relationships with our clients, guests, and communities. We offer competitive benefits, see our website for more.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws.