School Nutrition Program Manager

General Purpose:

Lead and guide school nutrition initiatives for a business unit or group. Function as a subject matter expert on school nutrition, providing insights, education, and support to enhance menu planning and compliance, ensuring that the company is recognized as a trusted partner in the school nutrition space. Ensure alignment with national, regional, and local nutrition standards, with a strong emphasis on dairy and related product offerings.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership and Compliance

• Interpret and communicate evolving school nutrition standards, protocols, and guidelines to internal stakeholders
• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, particularly those governing school milk programs
• Monitor and respond to changes in nutrition policy and legislation affecting school foodservice

Industry Engagement

• Actively participate in regional and national school nutrition organizations
• Represent the company in industry forums and contribute to the development of nutrition standards

Product and Menu Strategy

• Collaborate within the dairy division to support school strategy, including menu planning and caloric analysis
• Provide expertise on the nutritional role of dairy products and related items (e.g., juice, yogurt, smoothies, a la carte offerings) in school meal programs
• Support innovation and development of school-compliant products

Cross-Functional Support

• Serve as a resource for nutrition-related inquiries across other business formats beyond schools
• Partner with marketing, sales, and product development teams to ensure nutritional integrity and messaging

The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Minimum Requirements:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Food and Nutrition, Dietetics, or a related field
• 8 or more years of experience in school nutrition or foodservice nutrition leadership
• Certification and/or License - Certified School Nutrition Specialist (SNS), Registered Dietitian (RD), or equivalent credential strongly preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Deep understanding of USDA school meal programs and dairy industry standards
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Strong interpersonal skills to build trust with school nutrition directors and food service staff
• Ability to listen to client needs and offer tailored product solutions
• Ability to maintain relationships over time
• Ability to present product benefits in terms of nutrition, compliance, and student appeal
• Ability to collaborate with marketing to create school-focused campaigns or materials
• Ability to conduct product tastings or demos at trade shows, for school decision-makers, etc.
• Creative thinking to solve menu or compliance challenges for schools
• Flexibility to adapt to changing regulations
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans