Patrick Clelland

About Patrick Clelland

I’ve spent most of my life in the service industry— beginning in the early 80\'s on Long Island in deli’s, diners, clam bars, restaurants, and banquet halls. Those early experiences shaped my work ethic, my respect for frontline employees, and my belief that great service begins with genuine care for people. I joined my current organization in 1991. Over the decades, I’ve grown through nearly every operational role: Retail Manager, Production Manager, Executive Chef, Operations Manager, Project Manager, General Manager, Area General Manager, Resident District Manager, and District Manager. I’ve also spent the past 22 years owning and operating small permaculture and regenerative farms, working directly with farmers markets, chambers of commerce, farm to fork food hub development, and earning a deep appreciation and connection to where our food comes from by personally working the dirt and pastures. I’m passionate about:• Sustainability and strengthening local/regional food systems• Community relations and Stop Hunger initiatives• Cultural competence, inclusion, and creating environments where every person feels valued• Student life, student success, and holistic support• Strategic partnerships that elevate campus and community impact• Collaboration and cura personalis — caring for the whole person• Employee value proposition, frontline employee gratitude, and an employee-first philosophyIn addition to my district leadership role, I contribute nationally through special teams focused on:• Safety and operational readiness• Stop Hunger and community impact initiatives• Local and Bio-Regional food shed development• Operational Excellence• Employee Value Proposition strategy and innovation• Strategic partnerships that strengthen organizational alignment and long-term valueWorking within Jesuit university environments has further shaped my leadership approach. I’m deeply aligned with Jesuit core mission and values — including cura personalis, social justice, service to others, and the development of the whole person. I believe dining services play a vital role in student growth, community building, and creating inclusive, welcoming spaces that nourish both body and spirit. My work centers on advancing these values through sustainable practices, community engagement, and partnerships that make a meaningful difference on campus and beyond.At my core, I believe leadership is service. When we invest in people — their growth, their dignity, and their sense of belonging — we build organizations that thrive and communities that flourish.

Experience

1. District Manager Wa Id

   Sodexo

   Sep 2025 — Present

Education

• Best Value PBSRG

  BV Contract Management Certification, Information Measurement Theory / Performance Improvement Process

• S.U.N.Y. Plattsburgh

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Business Administration and Management, General

• S.U.N.Y Cobleskill

  Associate's Degree, Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities

• Sodexo

  DM Core, District Manager Core Competency and Development

• Sodexo -

  Organizational Leadership

• Sodexo

  Certification, Lean Six Signa

Skills

• Public Speaking
• Menu Costing
• Fine Dining
• Contract Negotiation
• Menu Development
• Sanitation
• Restaurant Management
• Culinary Skills
• Team Building
• Management
• Food Preparation
• Event Planning
• Operations Management
• Leadership
• Cuisine
• Catering
• Income Statement
• Banquets
• Food Service
• Facilities Management
• Food Service Operations
• Food & Beverage
• Customer Service