Food Service Design Manager (Commercial Kitchens & Data Centers)

About the role

The Food Service Design Manager leads the planning and delivery of food service environments within data centers, including commercial kitchens, serveries, micro-kitchens, pantries and support spaces. The role focuses on back-of-house (BOH) design, kitchen equipment planning and making sure food service facilities are operationally efficient, compliant and future-ready.

Key responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end design of food service spaces, focusing on BOH functionality and kitchen equipment specification.
• Provide expertise across all project phases, from planning and design through construction and handover.
• Coordinate with stakeholders, consultants, contractors and operators on kitchen layouts, workflows, equipment, MEP requirements and waste management strategies.
• Review equipment selections and layouts to align with operational, sustainability and project requirements.
• Conduct site inspections, testing and commissioning to ensure operational readiness.
• Collaborate with Food Services, Real Estate, Facilities and Project Management teams.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks and recommend corrective actions.
• Support capital planning through early scoping, budgeting and resource forecasting.
• Drive continuous improvement using industry best practices and lessons learned.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Interior Design or a related field; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 12+ years of experience in design or design management, focused on commercial kitchens and food service facilities.
• Strong understanding of food service operations, workflows and kitchen equipment planning.
• Preferred: experience in data center, mission-critical, industrial or large-scale commercial projects.

Required skills

• Excellent visual, written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong stakeholder management and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Understanding of permitting processes, construction terminology, building systems and project delivery.