Culinary Program Manager

Position Summary

Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Eastern Wisconsin, Inc. (RMHC) is a premier nonprofit dedicated to keeping families together and promoting the health and well-being of children. The Culinary Program Manager leads all aspects of the food related programs at the House including meal planning, budgeting, inventory, vendor relationships, and volunteer engagement to provide a high-quality and welcoming experience for our families.

Key Responsibilities

Program Oversight & Execution

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of all food programs, including the Family Dinner Program, Lunch-2-Go, General Use Pantries and Breakfast Bar.
• Ensure compliance with RMHC Global Meal Program guidelines and food safety standards.
• Develop and maintain structured systems for meal preparation, service, and cleanup.
• Serve meals in the absence of volunteer groups, ensuring continuity of service. Family Dinner service is from 5-6 p.m.

Meal Program Management

• Manage daily meal budgets and ensure cost-effective use of funds.
• Develop standard food and supply orders to maintain consistent weekly menu cadences based on census data and dietary needs.
• Design pre-planned menu options and purchasing lists based on census data and dietary needs.
• Track inventory, product usage, and costs; identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Maintain organized food storage across 9 kitchens and additional program spaces.

Volunteer Engagement

• Recruit, train, and support volunteer groups for meal preparation and service.
• Provide engaging experiences for volunteers, including tours and mission education.
• Collaborate with the Volunteer Services and Development teams to enhance volunteer participation.
• Oversee volunteer positions that support the meal programs.

Vendor & Grant Management

• Establish and maintain vendor relationships for food and supply procurement.
• Lead grant-funded programs
• Ensure compliance with grant reporting and stewardship requirements.
• Facilitate engagement opportunities for corporate partners and donors.

Data & Communication

• Capture and analyze program data to inform decisions.
• Maintain and update communication tools such as calendars, guidelines, newsletters, and app content.
• Develop contingency plans for last-minute cancellations with clear communication protocols.
• Ensure proper acknowledgment and appreciation for all volunteer groups.

Qualifications

• Experience in food service, program management, or nonprofit operations.
• Commitment to RMHC’s mission and values.
• Strong organizational, planning, and budgeting skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead and inspire volunteers with compassion and clarity.
• Proficiency in data tracking, reporting, and vendor management.
• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to perform kitchen-related physical tasks (e.g., standing, lifting).

Department: Operations

Reports to: Vice President, Mission Services

Status: Full-Time, Exempt