Ben Marks

Ben Marks joined Virginia Tech in 2019 as associate director of Dining Services with over 20 years in the hospitality industry, including 12 years in college and university dining. He oversees a retail portfolio at Owens Food Court and Hokie Grill that conducts 2 million transactions per year and guides operations that support all of Dining, including Southgate Center commissary and bakeshop; an award-winning sustainability program; and the university’s organic and GAP certified Homefield Farm.

Ben’s purview includes leading a team of chefs to help fulfill Dining’s vision for culinary excellence and overseeing management of several national food service brands on campus. He is co-leading the development of Perry Place at Hitt Hall and will oversee operations of the multivenue dining center, planned to open in spring 2024. 

Ben is committed to providing outstanding guest experiences through values that advance an award-winning and trend-setting dining program. He approaches staff development strategically through coaching and mentorship to position each team member for growth. Ben thrives on innovating to meet the evolving priorities of a top-tier dining service and takes pride in nurturing relationships with local suppliers and producers.

Ben holds a Master of Arts degree in adult and post-secondary education from the University of Wyoming, a Bachelor of Science in hotel and restaurant administration from Missouri State University, and an associate of arts with an emphasis in Culinary Arts. He finds reward in sharing his time and experience with community social, educational, and economic improvement initiatives.