Director of Food Pantry Operations

Organizational Overview

We are a mission-driven nonprofit organization committed to reducing food insecurity in our community through the operation of a local food pantry and resale boutique. Our work is grounded in compassion and dignity – and is powered by dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners.

Position Summary

The Director of Food Pantry Operations is responsible for the leadership, management, and oversight of all food pantry operations. This includes supervision of a small staff and 60+ person volunteer base, inventory and logistics management, community outreach, compliance, data tracking, and active participation in fundraising efforts. This role combines hands-on physical work with strategic leadership and requires someone who is equally comfortable operating a pallet jack as they are speaking to donors or community groups. The ideal candidate brings a deep passion for serving others, strong organizational and leadership abilities, and a commitment to improving food access for all.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Staff Management

• Supervise and support drivers, maintenance and operations staff.
• Provide regular performance evaluations, coaching, and team development.
• Lead with a collaborative, mission-driven approach while ensuring operational efficiency.
• Recruit, train, and oversee individual and group volunteers, fostering a welcoming, environment.

Operations & Inventory Management

• Oversee all pantry operations: food sourcing, receiving, inspecting, sorting, storing, and distributing. Manage pantry budget.
• Ensure food safety standards are met in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Maintain accurate inventory systems and perform annual inventory counts.
• Operate and assist with equipment, including pallet jacks, warehouse tools, van, and truck.
• Support physical tasks such as lifting food (up to 50 lbs), moving pallets, and organizing storage areas.

Client Services

• Ensure a respectful and dignified experience for all pantry clients.
• Troubleshoot client service issues and resolve challenges with empathy and efficiency.
• Support use of technology (e.g., check-in systems, Salesforce) to streamline client service and reporting.

Community Engagement & Fundraising

• Serve as the public face of Family Sharing in the community.
• Build and maintain partnerships with food banks, grocery stores, donors, and service agencies.
• Conduct outreach and public speaking to promote the pantry and engage community support.
• Collaborate with leadership on fundraising efforts, grant applications, and awareness campaigns.

Data Management & Reporting

• Ensure timely and accurate data entry in Salesforce and other platforms.
• Analyze usage trends to forecast client needs and inform operational planning.
• Track pantry metrics for internal reporting, grant compliance, and impact storytelling.
• Proven leadership and team management experience in a nonprofit, logistics, or service-oriented setting.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to plan, prioritize, and execute multiple priorities.
• Experience in food distribution, warehouse operations, or inventory management preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to speak to broad audiences and build trust across a broad community.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with Salesforce is a plus.

Required Skills and Experience

• Proven leadership and team management experience in a nonprofit, logistics, or service-oriented setting.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to plan, prioritize, and execute multiple priorities.
• Experience in food distribution, warehouse operations, or inventory management preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to speak to broad audiences and build trust across a broad community.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with Salesforce is a plus.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Comfortable operating a pallet jack, food transport van, and box truck (valid driver’s license required) when needed.
• Work is performed in a mix of office, warehouse, and community settings.
• Flexibility to occasionally work evenings or weekends for events or seasonal needs.

Education & Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree is required; a degree in nonprofit management, business administration, or related field is a plus.
• Minimum 4 years of people management experience.
• Nonprofit or community service experience preferred – as an employee or a volunteer.