General Manager of Concessions - MSU

Proof of the Pudding, an award-winning hospitality company recognized for delivering elevated culinary experiences across the Southeast, is seeking an experienced General Manager of Concessions to lead the food and beverage concessions operations for Mississippi State University Athletics.

This leadership role oversees all concessions operations across multiple athletic venues including football, baseball, basketball, and special events, serving tens of thousands of passionate Bulldogs fans throughout the year. The General Manager of Concessions will be responsible for driving operational excellence, financial performance, team leadership, and an outstanding fan experience across all concession locations.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, strategic leader with strong experience in high-volume sports and entertainment venues, capable of building high-performing teams while delivering efficient, profitable, and guest-focused concessions operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all concessions operations for Mississippi State Athletics across football, baseball, basketball, and other university events.
• Lead the planning, setup, execution, and breakdown of all concessions operations for large-scale events serving thousands of fans.
• Manage operational logistics including inventory management, product ordering, warehouse operations, equipment readiness, and stand setup.
• Ensure consistent execution of food quality, speed of service, cleanliness, and fan experience across all concession locations.
• Oversee operational readiness including POS systems, utilities, equipment maintenance, and product availability.
• Ensure all concessions locations open on time and operate efficiently throughout each event.
• Maintain full P&L accountability for the concessions department.
• Develop and manage annual budgets, forecasting, cost controls, and revenue performance.
• Monitor labor costs, food costs, and operating expenses to maximize profitability.
• Analyze sales performance and identify opportunities for revenue growth, product innovation, and operational efficiency.
• Lead and develop a concessions leadership team including managers, supervisors, and event staff.
• Oversee recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and training of concessions personnel.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Provide coaching, performance evaluations, and leadership development for department managers.
• Lead pre-event operational meetings and ensure clear communication of expectations for each event.
• Ensure the concessions program delivers a best-in-class fan experience consistent with Mississippi State Athletics and Proof of the Pudding standards.
• Maintain high standards of hospitality, presentation, speed of service, and product quality.
• Support menu development initiatives and introduce new concessions concepts to enhance the fan experience.
• Ensure consistency in signage, food packaging, and brand integrity throughout all concessions operations.
• Coordinate operational logistics and support for third-party vendors and local food partners.
• Maintain strong working relationships with university leadership, athletics operations staff, and venue partners.
• Ensure vendors comply with operational standards, safety regulations, and event timelines.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, alcohol service policies, and health department regulations.
• Ensure compliance with cash handling, inventory control, and security protocols.
• Maintain a safe working environment for all employees and guests.

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business, or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of management experience in high-volume sports & entertainment concessions, stadium operations, or large-scale food service.
• Experience managing large event crowds (10,000+ guests).
• Strong financial management experience including P&L oversight and budgeting.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with POS systems, Microsoft Office, and operational reporting tools.
• Must be willing to live in or relocate to Starkville, Mississippi.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working within collegiate athletics or SEC venues.
• Knowledge of stadium concessions logistics, event staffing, and inventory management.
• Experience with Square or other stadium POS systems.
• Proven ability to lead large event teams and operate in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment

This role requires a combination of office management and hands-on event operations. The General Manager must be present for major athletic events and work within stadium environments that may include outdoor venues and varied terrain.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during events.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds when necessary.
• Frequent movement throughout stadium facilities and event spaces.

CORE VALUE AND COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS

• Business Acumen - Demonstrate comprehension of the job, including policies, practices, and relationships. Possess the expertise and skill levels required of the job and perform with quality.
• Dedication - Dependable, reliable and follows through on projects from inception to completion. Willing to put in as much time as necessary to complete tasks. Demonstrate a win-win attitude: “see it, own it, solve it.”
• Ethics and Integrity - Acts with integrity, honesty and knowledge that promote the company’s culture, values and beliefs while maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct.
• Safety & Security - Observe safety and security standards. Use equipment and materials properly. Comply with safety standards and personal protective equipment requirements. Report potential unsafe conditions or practices to appropriate person immediately. Promote restaurant safety, cleanliness, and security compliance at all times.
• Teamwork - Cooperate and be willing to work as a team player to achieve goals and tasks accurately, efficiently, and timely.
• Communication - Communicate clearly and effectively with mutual respect, understanding and trust to fellow associates, managers, supervisors, and guests. Listen carefully to opinions and views of others; state understanding of what has been heard.
• Initiative - Contribute new ideas and suggestions to enhance productivity and efficiency. Be proactive in troubleshooting problems or issues and take action to mitigate potential problems.
• Adaptability & Planning - Possess the ability to learn new tasks and adjust well to new situations. Perform well under tight time schedules and pressures to change direction quickly.
• Service Orientation - Demonstrates a sense of urgency. Is welcoming, friendly and smiles when visible to guests.

Proof of the Pudding is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.