Belinda Oakley departs Chartwells K12 for CEO role at Sodexo

Former Chartwells K12 CEO Belinda Oakley has been named chief executive of Sodexo Live! North America.

Oakley assumes the role previously held by Steve Pangburn, who is stepping down to spend more time with family, according to a news release. He will stick around to assist with the role transition as an advisor through March.

While at Chartwells K12, Oakley oversaw the foodservice operations at 4,400 schools across the country.

During her tenure there, the company weathered the many ups and downs of the pandemic, introduced a program seeking to improve students’ emotional wellness through healthy foods, and brought a number of plant-based and globally inspired dishes to the fore.

“As we double down on pursuing our ambitious growth goals, we’re thrilled to welcome Belinda to the team,” Nathalie Bellon-Szabo, global chief executive officer for Sodexo Live!, said in the release. “She has an outstanding track record in commercial and business development—with Belinda’s leadership and capabilities, the talents and engagement of the North America team and the strong positive momentum of our business, I am confident we will be successful in accelerating our growth in North America.”

Sodexo Live! manages hospitality in conference centers, arenas and airports, operating in 500 venues worldwide.